CFAES promotes the accessibility of educational materials and programs by all individuals, including but not limited to those with mobility, vision, and hearing disabilities. When preparing materials for print, web, video, or live presentation, keep the following guidelines in mind.
Printed Materials
When creating accessible printed materials, make sure you save or make available a digital version that can be printed out in different sizes or provided electronically for individuals to use with assistive technology. Information about creating accessible files is available at hhs.gov/web/508/accessiblefiles/index.html.
Webpages
All new and redesigned webpages published by any college, department, program, or unit within The Ohio State University after June 30, 2004, must be in compliance with the university’s 2004 Minimum Web Accessibility Standards (MWAS). These standards are intended to provide information that is accessible by individuals using assistive technology. Examples of the standards include the following: providing a text equivalent for every nontext element; designing webpages so that all information conveyed with color is also available without color; and giving individuals using assistive technology adequate time to complete online forms. More details can be found at osu.edu/resources/web/accessibility and at accessibility.osu.edu/resources/web-accessibility.
Videos
When planning and producing video and multimedia productions, please keep the following points in mind:
- If speech or other audio information is necessary for the comprehension of the content, the production should be open or closed caption.
- Any visual information necessary for the comprehension of the content should be audio-described.
Meetings
When planning meetings, keep in mind accessibility issues related to meeting sites and presentations, printed materials, and other forms of communication. For example, invitations should include information about the accessibility of the meeting’s location, how to request services for the meeting, and accessible means to respond to the invitation. In addition, any information presented during meetings should be made available in alternative formats. For more information, see the U.S. Department of Justice’s publication "Accessible Information Exchange: Meeting on a Level Playing Field" at ada.gov/business/accessiblemtg.htm. Also see ada.osu.edu/resources/accessiblemeetings.html for a list of other resources on accessible meetings.
More Information
Section 508 is the federal law that requires federal agencies to make their electronic and information technology accessible to individuals with disabilities. Many of Ohio State’s standards for accessibility are based on this law. For details of the Section 508 standards, including software, web, telecommunication products, video, and multimedia see section508.gov. Ohio State’s ADA Coordinator’s Office also provides resources at ada.osu.edu.