Creating an Accessible User Manual with AI Support

Adapted from: Courses on Technical Writing and resources on Accessibility and Instructional Design.

Purpose

This assignment challenges students to design an accessible user manual for assistive technology, emphasizing adaptability to diverse user needs and accessibility standards.

Learning Outcomes

• Develop user manuals tailored to the needs of diverse audiences, including individuals with disabilities.
• Apply document design strategies that meet accessibility standards and multicultural considerations.
• Reflect on the design process and articulate insights gained through peer review and user testing.

Instructions

Format (Final Deliverable)

1. User Manual Design
   • Select an assistive technology device to focus on.
   • Define the specific user audience and research their interests, skill levels, and context.
   • Design an accessible user manual, ensuring it includes:
     • A description of the assistive technology.
     • Key terms and step-by-step instructions for use, with visual aids and alt text.
     • Compatibility guidelines.
     • (Optional) A second-language version for multilingual accessibility.
2. Reflection
   • Document the manual creation process, including challenges, decisions, and key takeaways.
3. Peer Review and User Testing
   • Engage in peer review to refine the manual.
   • Conduct user testing to ensure usability and accessibility.
4. Suggested AI Tools
   • Use ChatGPT to brainstorm ideas or outline sections of the manual.
   • Use Microsoft Copilot to refine writing and structure.
   • Use Hemingway Editor to improve clarity and accessibility of text.
   • Document AI usage with screenshots, descriptions, and a fact-checking report to ensure accuracy.

Grading Criteria

• Quality and accessibility of the user manual (40%)
• Effective incorporation of peer feedback and user testing results (30%)
• Clarity and depth of reflection on the process (20%)
• Ethical and effective documentation of AI tool usage (10%)

Resources

• User manual milestones project description
• Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG)
• Writing Center consultations for outline and structure
• ChatGPT and Hemingway Editor for brainstorming and refining