Communication (other than information and communication technologies)

Here is Accessibility Standards Canada’s current standard, along with our funded grants and contributions research related to communication (other than information and communication technologies). Check here often for new information related to this priority area.

Standards

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CAN-ASC-3.1 Plain Language

CAN-ASC-3.1 Plain Language

Areas of focus

Areas where people with disabilities may face barriers in plain language include:

  • lack of information and awareness by communicators, including knowing about accommodation pertaining to plain language
  • language grade level

This standard is in development

Standard started on October 1, 2020

Public review expected in winter 2023

Publication expected in spring 2024

Technical committee members

Academic and research bodies

Iva Cheung, Post-doctoral fellow, University of British Columbia

Julie Ruel, Researcher, University Institute for Intellectual Disabilities and Autism Spectrum Disorder

Consumer and public interest

Carol Wilson, Health Education Consultant, Carol A Wilson BSN RN

Catherine Buckie, Independent Plain Language Consultant, iwritewell.ca

Hilda Smith, Workshop Designer & Clear Language Consultant

Karen McCall, Accessible Document Design Consultant and Trainer, Karlen Communications

Lorne Mackenzie, Senior Regulatory Affairs Manager, WestJet (inactive)

Government and authorities having jurisdiction 

Cynthia Jolly, Communications Manager, Canadian Transportation Agency

Nancy Foreman, Plain Language Specialist, Shared Services Canada

Youssef Megharfi, French Translator, Treasury Board Secretariat

Industry and commerce

David Berman, Chief Accessibility Officer, David Berman Communications

Eyra Abraham, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Lisnen

Laura Edlund, Freelance Writer and Editor, Laura Edlund – Writing * Editing * Research

Melissa Kargiannakis (Vice Chairperson), Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Skritswap

Non-governmental organizations

Catherine Rodgers (Chairperson), Director of Communications, People First of Canada

Stacey Kowbel, Researcher, Vecova

Rachel Mills, Senior Policy Analyst, Inclusion Canada

Grants and Contributions Research

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Accessibility Standards for Deaf and Deafblind Canadians

Accessibility Standards for Deaf and Deafblind Canadians

This research project is still underway.

Who is leading this research?

Canadian Association of the Deaf

What is the goal of this study?

This study will focus on the barriers faced by people who are deaf or deafblind. The goal is to determine where changes can be made to existing standards. The purpose of these changes will be to improve access and remove barriers for people who are deaf and deafblind.

Why does this study matter?

The deafblind community faces unique challenges. This study will improve our understanding of these challenges. This is needed to support the development of standards that support the accessibility needs of people who are deaf or deafblind.

What are the key findings?

Key findings will be shared once the research is completed.

Exploring the Place of Interpretive Support in Information and Communications Accessibility

Exploring the Place of Interpretive Support in Information and Communications Accessibility

This research project is still underway.

Who is leading the research?

Institute for Research and Development on Inclusion and Society

What is the goal of this study?

This study will gather information on different approaches and tools that can facilitate communication for people with disabilities. This includes people with intellectual, cognitive, and communication disabilities.

Why does this study matter?

Research on such tools and approaches is needed so they can be integrated into communication standards.

What are the key findings?

Key findings will be shared once the research is completed.

An Exploratory Study of Video-Accessible Communications Practices

An Exploratory Study of Video-Accessible Communications Practices

This research project is still underway.

Who is leading the research?

Réseau québécois pour l’inclusion des personnes sourdes et malentendantes

What is the goal of this study?

This study will review existing information on sign language models. The goal is to develop best practices for accessible communications for the deaf and hard of hearing.

Why does this study matter?

Communication standards need to consider the requirements of individuals who are deaf and hard of hearing.

What are the key findings?

Key findings will be shared once the research is completed.

Communication Access within the Accessible Canada Act

Communication Access within the Accessible Canada Act

This research project is still underway.

Who is leading the research?

Ontario College of Art and Design University

What is the goal of this study?

People with various communication disabilities face barriers when accessing federal services. This study will gather information on these barriers. It will also gather information on accommodation requirements. The goal will be to use this data to inform future standard development.

Why does this study matter?

Federal services need to be accessible to people with communication disabilities.

What are the key findings?

Key findings will be shared once the research is completed.

Advancing Accessible Communication for People with Intellectual Disabilities

Advancing Accessible Communication for People with Intellectual Disabilities

This research project is still underway.

Who is leading the research?

Inclusion Canada

What is the goal of this study?

People with intellectual disabilities face communication barriers. This study will gather information to support the removal and prevention of these barriers. This data will be used to inform future standard development.

Why does this study matter?

Communication standards need to consider the accessibility requirements of people with all types of disabilities. This includes intellectual disabilities.

What are the key findings?

Key findings will be shared once the research is completed.

Advancing Accessibility Standards through Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit

Advancing Accessibility Standards through Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit

This research project is still underway.

Who is leading the research?

Nunavummi Disabilities Makinnasuaqtiit Society

What is the goal of this study?

This study will gather information on how accessibility standards are used in Nunavut. It will identify barriers faced by people with disabilities from an Indigenous perspective.

Why does this study matter?

A better understanding of Indigenous perspectives on disability and accessibility is needed. This will make future standards more relevant to Indigenous communities.

What are the key findings?

Key findings will be shared once the research is completed.

Visualizing Accessibility Standards: A Demonstration with CSA B651

Visualizing Accessibility Standards: A Demonstration with CSA B651

This research project is still underway.

Who is leading the research?

Dalhousie University

What is the goal of this study?

Visual reference materials and tools can be helpful for presenting technical documentation. This study will look at how these can benefit people with visual disabilities.

Why does this study matter?

Using visual aids to present technical information can improve information sharing. It can also increase understanding for all stakeholders.

What are the key findings?

Key findings will be shared once the research is completed.