Microsoft Boosts OneNote Accessibility, Offers Free Accessibility Training Course for Educators

Microsoft has unveiled new accessibility features for OneNote, the company's collaborative note-taking app for Windows, macOS, iOS and Android.

According to the company, the update provides a new design that's focused on ease of use for all learners, with particular emphasis on features for those with mobility impairments and for those who use screen readers. That includes a simplified navigation structure and added consistency across platforms, as well as improved keyboard shortcuts.

OneNote accessibility updates 

"With the goal of making usage of OneNote within the classroom more accessible and accommodating for students with varying learning styles and abilities, the OneNote team embarked on a year-long journey listening to teachers and incorporating feedback to help inform the redesign of OneNote's user interface," according to information released by Microsoft. "The OneNote redesign brings consistency across apps, improves usability for those with vision and mobility impairments, and simplifies navigation controls."

Microsoft is also offering a new accessibility training course for educators on the use of Office 365. The course is designed to train teachers — especially special ed teachers, though it's open to all — in the creation of accessible documents, revision of older documents to make them accessible and use of Office tools like Skype Translator and Office Lens for accessibility.

The course is free for educators, administrators, parents and students.

About the Author

David Nagel is the former editorial director of 1105 Media's Education Group and editor-in-chief of THE Journal, STEAM Universe, and Spaces4Learning. A 30-year publishing veteran, Nagel has led or contributed to dozens of technology, art, marketing, media, and business publications.

He can be reached at [email protected]. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidrnagel/ .


Featured

  • three silhouetted education technology leaders with thought bubbles containing AI-related icons

    Ed Tech Leaders Rank Generative AI as Top Tech Priority

    In a recent CoSN survey, an overwhelming majority of ed tech leaders (94%) said they see AI as having a positive impact on education. Respondents ranked generative AI as their top tech priority, with 80% reporting their districts have gen AI initiatives underway, or plan to in the current school year.

  • laptop screen displaying a typed essay, on a child

    McGraw Hill Acquires Essaypop Digital Learning Tool

    Education company McGraw Hill has announced the acquisition of Essaypop, a cloud-based writing tool that will enhance the former's portfolio of personalized learning capabilities.

  • illustration of an open book with lines and circles around it

    Foundations in Learning Launches Fluency for All Movement

    Ed tech company Foundations in Learning, creator of the WordFlight literacy assessment and intervention for students in grades 3-8, has kicked off a new movement aimed at improving reading literacy.

  • pattern of icons for math and reading, including a pi symbol, calculator, and open book

    HMH Launches Personalized Path Solution

    Adaptive learning company HMH has introduced HMH Personalized Path, a K-8 ELA and math product that combines intervention curriculum, adaptive practice, and assessment for students of all achievement levels.