Use Zoom whiteboards with accessibility in mind

Zoom’s whiteboard tool allows for more engaging experiences for users but if this tool isn’t used effectively, it can prevent full participation.

When facilitating any activity, it is important to consider core principles of accessibility: P.O.U.R. (Perceivable, Operable, Understandable, and Robust). The success criteria for accessible web content are categorized in each of the four areas associated with this acronym.

Perceivable

Whiteboards rely on visual depictions of ideas and not everyone perceives visual cues the same way.

Assistive technology (like screen readers) can only understand content that’s properly organized and labeled. If the content on a Zoom whiteboard isn’t structured clearly, the technology can’t figure out how its meant to be arranged. Using assistive tools alone isn’t enough for fast-changing or visual content. Without a person explaining what’s happening and helping guide the session, users may get overwhelmed by constant updates or miss important visual details.

As a best practice in a real-time session, the moderator should describe new visual elements as they appear on screen. This information should be live captioned and interpreted if needed with access to the full transcript of what is being said.

Operable

Ensuring that the tool is operable by all participants is another key element for inclusive learning.

Some of Zoom’s whiteboard features can only be used with a pointing device. Keyboard access is limited, so offering opportunities to engage with the tool through other methods should be allowed.

As a best practice when using a whiteboard, moderators should include time for additional input by actively soliciting feedback from all users to ensuring that individuals can contribute to the collaborative opportunity through multiple means.

Understandable

Ensuring that the information being shared is understandable is essential for education.

Clear communication with whiteboards can be a challenge. Similarly, when more than one person speaks at a time the crosstalk can impede the ability to understand the content, simultaneous collaboration can lead to overlapping ideas that become undecipherable after the fact.

As a best practice, taking time to provide regular summaries, reorganizing material, and removing clutter can lead to a fuller understanding of the content. Speaking slowly and articulating can allow assistive technology or interpreters enough time to accurately present the information shared.

Robust

Ensuring that the information presented is consistent in representing the materials on various devices, like mobile phones or tablets can reduce barriers by allowing individuals to react to, engage with, and participate on their preferred devices through a more equitable learning experience.