Creating an Accessible User Manual with Limited AI Use

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

Purpose

This assignment challenges students to independently design an accessible user manual for assistive technology, focusing on creativity, empathy, and ethical considerations in serving diverse audiences.

The assignment emphasizes the uniquely human abilities of understanding user needs, applying accessibility standards, and iteratively improving through reflection and user testing.

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

Alternative 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. Manual Design Documentation
   • Provide documentation that includes:
     • Description of the assistive technology and selected user audience.
     • Research findings and implementation plan.
     • Design and composition strategies employed.
     • Usability testing plan and results.
     • Revisions and feedback incorporated through peer review and user testing.
3. Reflection
   • Include a reflection covering challenges, decisions, and insights gained throughout the process.
4. Restrictions on AI Use
   • Generative AI tools (e.g., ChatGPT) are not permitted.
   • Submit evidence of Writing Center consultations to support your work.

Grading Criteria

• Quality and accessibility of the user manual (40%)
• Effective documentation of research, design, and testing processes (30%)
• Clarity and depth of reflection on the process (20%)
• Adherence to guidelines limiting AI use (10%)

Resources

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