Guidelines for SCRA Presentations
SCRA works to make its Biennial Conference accessible so persons with disabilities can attend and participate fully. All sessions should be designed so that all persons can interact and participate to the fullest extent. Therefore, SCRA is seeking the assistance of all presenters in making the conference accessible for their respective audiences. Please review the following information.
Adaptations for People with Disabilities
Remember that disabilities may not always be obvious. It is wise to assume there will be some members of your audience who will have trouble seeing visual aids (such as slides, overheads, etc.) and/or some who will have difficulty hearing what is said.
For large audiences, it is helpful to reserve a few front row seats and seats in the rear for individuals with disabilities so they have the best possible opportunity to see and hear the presentation.
When making slide presentation, be sure that images are projected high enough so that images are visible for those persons seated.
Adaptations for People who are Blind or Visually Impaired
Visual aids must be accompanied by an oral narrative. Describe in detail the information that is being presented on the overhead projector, or screen.
Repeat all questions or statements from the audience. This is also helpful for deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals. Repeating questions or statements should always be done when sessions are being taped since the microphones for the speakers will not pick up the voices in the audience. In dialogues or discussion, try to have one person speak at a time, and try to identify the speaker so the audience members or those listening to the tape will know who is talking.
When possible, provide large print copies of your presentation. This is fairly easy when using a computer. When possible, provide copies of handouts, graphs, charts, or other visual aids in sharp, black print on white paper. (Avoid colored paper.) Additionally, provide disk, brailled or recorded version if requested.
Adaptations for People who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing
People who are deaf or hard of hearing need to sit where they can see the speaker easily. When an interpreter is used to translate the session into sign, the interpreter must be able to see both the speaker and the person(s) being interpreted for. For most sessions, there will be a minimum of two interpreters. The interpreter may stand close to the speaker or within a direct line of sight to allow viewing both the speaker and the interpreter within a quick glance. Attempt to keep this line of vision clear and, if possible, assist in this process. Interpreters will generally give significant environmental sounds, such as laughing, as well as various directions and cues.
Avoid talking in a darkened area of the room or platform. It is important to provide a direct and clear view of your mouth and face, continually.
When not using an overhead projector, turn it off. This reduces background noise and helps focus audience attention on you, the speaker.
Speak clearly and distinctly, but do not exaggerate. Use normal speed unless asked to slow down.
Allow extra time when referring to a visual aid or handout or when pointing out the location of materials because the listener must look, then return attention to the speaker/interpreter for further information.
Adaptations for People with Mobility Impairments
Keep front seats and rear of room clear for persons who may be using wheelchairs, canes, crutches, or motorized vehicles. This dramatically aids in access for your audience. If you are a speaker with a disability and have access or special needs, please notify Trish Long, Ph.D., Program Chair so that she may assist you.
If you have any questions, concerns, or comments, please contact:
Raymond L. Scott, Ph.D., Conference Co-Chair
Psychology Department
University of La Verne
1950 Third Street
La Verne, CA 91750
909-593-3511 (voice)
909-392-2745 (fax)
Email: scra_host@ulv.edu
Adapted from the Association on Higher Education and Disability Suggestions for Conference Speakers