Communication (other than information and communication technologies)
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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
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
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.