Handouts Accessibility

What

Update/create accessible Handouts (e.g., cases and study sheets), using Word or web-based formats over PDFs.

Why

Students who use screen readers encounter many difficulties with PDFs, which are difficult to remediate. Word files are better but also need to be structured for easier screen reading.

Focus for 2025-26 Academic Year

• Convert PDFs to web-based versions or Word documents
• Use headings
• Create meaningful text for hyperlinks
• Use built-in bullet or numbered lists

This year, do not worry about hand-drawn handouts.

Example

• In HNG Day 9 Stomach Cases, convert the underlined section titles into Headings.

More Resources

• How to Convert PDF to Word in Seconds (Video, 0:55)
• UW’s Making Assignments and Handouts Accessible (scroll down to the “Microsoft Word assignments and Handouts” section)
• Add a heading in a Word Document
• Use styles to Create Headings (Video, 3:04)
• Creating Meaningful Links
• Create Unambiguous Names for Links (Video, 3:33)
• Use Built-in Features to create Lists (Video, 3:59)

A More Detailed Why

Replacing PDFs with links to HTML-based versions significantly enhances accessibility for all users. Web-based content is easier to navigate with assistive technologies such as screen readers. Creating accessible Word documents is achieved by using features like proper heading styles, alt text for images, and high-contrast colors. It benefits students with visual impairments by making content readable by screen readers and improving contrast, while also helping all students through clearer organization, readable fonts, and logical structure.