Virtual Participation

Increasingly events have options for virtual participation. This can include attending remotely, but can also include engaging in activities or with other participants. Choosing a virtual platform and designing it intentionally is a big part of ensuring accessibility (Virtual Platforms), but how the platform is used is equally important. Many of the suggestions relate to effective engagement more generally, but having the specific needs of participants with disabilities in mind will help increase accessibility and engagement for all participants.

Suggestions 

• Share participation expectations
• Check for any technical issues prior to the participation  
• Provide a contact for technical issues  
• Clearly discuss how breakout rooms will work  
• Provide notification of transitions  
• Ensure participants have transition time
• Provide participants with a clear view of the room and other participants as needed
• Enable screen sharing as needed
• Include verbal descriptions if writing on a virtual white boards
• Ask participants to identify themselves before speaking 
• Monitor the chat for written participation