Online presentations are becoming more common and important in various settings, such as education, work, and social events. However, not everyone has the same access or ability to view, hear, and interact with your online presentation. How can you make your online presentation accessible to everyone? Here are some tips and tools to consider.
The first step is to choose a platform that is compatible with different devices, browsers, and assistive technologies, such as screen readers, captions, and keyboard navigation. Some examples of accessible platforms are Google Slides, PowerPoint Online, and Prezi. You can also check the accessibility features and guidelines of the platform you are using and test your presentation before sharing it.
I agree that we should explore available tools to help us improve the presentation. The most important thing to me is to get yourself familiar with that tool after choosing it. Each tools has its own way to have things done. It is crucial to learn features properly before the real presentation time.
The second step is to use clear and simple language that is easy to understand and follow. Avoid jargon, slang, and acronyms that might confuse or exclude some of your audience. Use short sentences, active voice, and transitions to connect your ideas. You can also use tools like Hemingway Editor or Grammarly to check your readability and grammar.
The third step is to add visual and audio aids that enhance your message and support your audience. Use images, graphs, charts, and videos that are relevant, high-quality, and have alt text descriptions. Use colors, fonts, and layouts that are contrasted, legible, and consistent. Use audio clips, music, and sound effects that are clear, appropriate, and have transcripts. You can also use tools like Canva or Piktochart to create engaging visuals and Audacity or Soundtrap to edit audio.
Visual and audio aids are key to delivering an interesting presentation. In addition to the slide options, consider using real props that you hold in your hand during a presentation. There are also some handy online tools to help you take an audience poll or get feedback. You want the net effect to capture the audience's attention and keep the talk stimulating.
The fourth step is to provide multiple ways of engagement that allow your audience to participate and interact with your presentation. Use polls, quizzes, chats, and Q&A sessions that are accessible, inclusive, and responsive. Use feedback, gestures, and expressions that are positive, encouraging, and respectful. You can also use tools like Mentimeter or Kahoot to create interactive activities and Zoom or Skype to communicate with your audience.
If you want to use engagement, be aware how your audience will attend your presentation. If they join in via mobile, it can be very challenging to use any interaction tools. Even something as simple as using the chat on Zoom whilst on the mobile is not easy. If your audience is attending as live audience in the room, think about the best tools to use. Lots of people are shy or do not want to express an opinion so show of hands might not work. Whatever engagement you use, make sure that you set your exception from the beginning and give the audience time to interact. Not everyone is super fast so have time in your slides to give people the option to engage.
The fifth step is to test and review your presentation before and after delivering it. Test your presentation on different devices, browsers, and assistive technologies to check for any issues or errors. Review your presentation for clarity, accuracy, and accessibility. Ask for feedback from your audience or peers and make improvements based on their suggestions. You can also use tools like Lighthouse or WAVE to check your web accessibility and SlideShare or YouTube to share your presentation.
The sixth step is to learn and improve your online presentation skills by seeking more resources, tips, and examples. You can find online courses, blogs, podcasts, and books that teach you how to create and deliver accessible online presentations. You can also watch and analyze online presentations from other speakers and learn from their strengths and weaknesses. You can also use tools like TED or Coursera to find inspiring and informative online presentations.