Students with cognitive disabilitiesâincluding ADHD, dyslexia, autism, and memory or processing challengesâoften struggle with dense, jargon-heavy, or lengthy blocks of text. Chunking text into manageable sections and simplifying language improves readability, supports comprehension, and reduces cognitive overload.
These practices are not just helpfulâthey align with Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles and WCAG 2.1 AA standards such as 1.3.1 Info and Relationships and 3.1.5 Reading Level, which encourage clear content organization and accessible language.
AI tools like ChatGPT, Claude, Copilot, and Gemini can be prompted to help you rewrite complex content into simpler, more accessible language for all learners.
Please help me rewrite the following paragraph to make it more accessible for college students with cognitive disabilities. Break it into shorter paragraphs with clear headings or bullet points. Use plain language, remove jargon, and keep sentence length under 15â20 words.
Original Text (Faculty Input):
Digital accessibility refers to the inclusive practice of ensuring that all users, regardless of disability or device, have equal access to digital content, services, and experiences by applying universal design principles and compliance with WCAG 2.1 AA standards.
AI-Simplified Version:
What is Digital Accessibility?
It means making sure everyone can use digital materials, no matter their ability.
It includes people who are blind, have low vision, or learning disabilities.
We use simple design and follow accessibility rules like WCAG 2.1 AA.
Break content into short paragraphs, bulleted lists, and clear headings.
Use plain languageâavoid academic jargon or complicated words.
Stick to one idea per paragraph.
Keep sentences short and direct.
Include visual spacing to reduce text clutter in Canvas or Word.
Copy a paragraph from your syllabus, assignment instructions, or course module into ChatGPT. Use the prompt above and review the AIâs version. Ask yourself:
Does this version help students who struggle with reading or memory?
Is the message still clear and correct?
Post your original and AI-revised versions side by side in your course for comparison and student feedback.
If you have questions about simplifying text or creating cognitively accessible course content, contact Instructional Accessibility Designer Terisa OâDowd at:
đ§ todowd1@twu.edu