Practical ways to make text-based materials more accessible for every learner.
# Accessible and Inclusive Text-Based Materials
**Framework Pillar**: Access
**Reading Time**: N/A
Educators know that one of the best ways to convey information is to create interest. We routinely use bright colors, fun fonts, and graphics to entice interaction. However, text-based educational materials such as documents and presentations can be visually and cognitively overwhelming for many students. After a year of viewing online coursework and hundreds of presentation slides, it is time to talk about providing accessible and inclusive text-based education materials for students with and without disabilities.
The Need for Accessible Materials
The National Center on Accessible Educational Materials states that accessible versions of educational materials may mean the difference between learning barriers and learning opportunities. Furthermore, Universal Design for Learning encourages instruction that optimizes learning based on what humans need to learn. It highlights the need to clarify language and symbols, as well as think about the display of information for different learners.
Typography and Layout Guidelines
Use a font that is clean and simple, such as Arial, Calibri, Century Gothic, Helvetica, Tahoma, or Verdana. Font size should be at least 12 point with large text at 18 point. Break down content into chunks so that information is presented in bite-size pieces. Use headings to signal new information or important concepts. Use left-margin justification. Spacing between lines should be at least 1.25 inches. Avoid columns and overusing bullet points.
Visual and Language Guidelines
Use dark color ink and paper that creates high contrast, such as black ink on white paper. Use visuals and graphics to break up text and support the concepts, and label and describe each visual. Use inclusive, People-First Language when describing a person with a disability. Ensure the graphics and visuals chosen reflect the diversity in our schools. Use language that is at an appropriate level for the reader. Make sure there is sufficient white space to help readers visually organize text.
Creating accessible and inclusive educational materials is not something we should be doing as a favor to our students. It is something we take into account for all our students, with or without disabilities, before instruction begins. Use these guidelines the next time you are creating a slide deck, worksheet, or meeting notes.