Accessible Board Work

By: Carmen Willings
teachingvisuallyimpaired.com
Updataed June 16, 2025
Chalkboards, whiteboards, and interactive boards (e.g., SMART Boards, Promethean Boards) are commonly used in classrooms for instructional purposes. However, these tools can present significant barriers for students who are blind or have visual impairments. With intentional strategies and appropriate accommodation, board work can be made more accessible and inclusive.

​Verbalize All Written Content

Say aloud everything that is written on the board—exactly as it appears.
  • This benefits all students, but it is essential for students who are blind or have low vision.
  • Be specific and clear: for example, instead of saying “this word,” say “the word ‘photosynthesis’.”
  • When using visuals like charts, diagrams, or math equations, describe them thoroughly.

Providing Accessible Copies of Notes

Note-taking is a challenge for many students with visual impairments. Consider the following options:
  • Provide digital copies of notes in advance so students can access them on a device with screen magnification or a screen reader (e.g., iPad, iPhone, laptop).
  • If braille is needed, provide the TVI (Teacher of Students with Visual Impairments) with materials in advance for braille translation.
  • Use customized note formats based on the student’s preferences:
    • Full-text notes
    • Fill-in-the-blank templates for active engagement
    • Step-by-step layouts (especially helpful in math)
Not all students will want or need full copies—some may prefer interactive methods to stay engaged.

​Flexible Seating and Visual Access

Optimal seating varies by student and activity. Here’s how to support effective positioning:
  • Allow the student to sit close to the board if it improves visual access.
  • For students with restricted visual fields, seating may need to be off to the side or further back.
  • Classroom instruction zones may shift—flexible seating should be allowed so students can move as needed for better viewing.
  • Work with the TVI and student to determine ideal seating arrangements.

Use of Low Vision Devices

If a student has been prescribed a monocular, binocular, or electronic magnifier, encourage its use—but with guidance:
  • These devices are best for spot viewing, not continuous reading or note-taking.
  • The TVI can provide training and assist with positioning to maximize use.
  • Encourage independence but be mindful that frequent shifting between board and notes can be frustrating and fatiguing.​

​Screen Sharing with Interactive Boards

​Technology like screen sharing can bring the board directly to the student’s device. One widely used option:
Apps (Zoom, Microsoft Teams, JoinMe, etc.):
  • Teacher initiates a screen-sharing session on the computer connected to the interactive board.
  • Student joins the session using a smartphone, tablet, or laptop and enters the access code.
  • The student can now view board content in real time with their preferred accessibility settings (zoom, color contrast, screen reader, etc.).
This method is especially helpful for SMART Boards, Promethean Boards, or when using PowerPoint or other digital content in class.

​Create Accessible PowerPoint Presentations

Accessible digital presentations benefit all students and are essential for many with disabilities. Follow these best practices:
  1. Use built-in slide layouts to ensure screen reader compatibility.
  2. Choose simple, legible fonts such as Arial or Verdana.
  3. Use a minimum 24-point font size for clarity.
  4. Maintain high contrast between text and background (e.g., black on white or white on dark blue).
  5. Avoid animations or slide transitions, which can be distracting and inaccessible.
  6. Add alternative text to all visuals, including images, charts, and graphs.
  7. Use clear, descriptive slide titles to support navigation.
  8. Include descriptive hyperlink text (e.g., “Visit the NASA website” instead of “Click here”).
  9. Save presentations in a compatible format, such as PowerPoint 97–2004 (.ppt), which increases accessibility across platforms.

Summary: Key Takeaways

  • Board Work: Say all text aloud exactly as written.
  • Note-Taking: Provide accessible digital or braille notes in advance.
  • Seating: Allow flexible seating for optimal board visibility.
  • Low Vision Devices: Encourage prescribed tools for spot viewing, not continuous reading.
  • Screen Sharing: Use apps to mirror interactive boards to student devices.
  • PowerPoint Presentations: Follow accessibility guidelines for slides and visuals.
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