Re: [NIFL-HEALTH:3019] RE: Reading Comprehension

From: Helen Osborne (Helen@healthliteracy.com)
Date: Thu Apr 12 2001 - 14:41:39 EDT


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From: "Helen Osborne" <Helen@healthliteracy.com>
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Subject: Re: [NIFL-HEALTH:3019] RE: Reading Comprehension
Date: Thu, 12 Apr 2001 14:41:39 -0400
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Interesting discussion about graphic design!

In addition to designing text so as to meet the needs of people with low
literacy skills, I also recommend using  principles of universal design as
you create print and Web-based materials. Universal design is an approach
that not only addresses specific disabilities but also takes into account a
wide array of physical, cognitive, and linguistic abilities of people
throughout the world over an entire life span.

When choosing colors, make sure there is sufficient contrast so that the
writing can be visible to people who are color blind. Consider using reverse
lettering (light or white print on darkened background) which may be easier
to see by people with low vision, but not necessarily by people with low
literacy. Balance opposing needs by finding ways to accommodate both
elements in your design, such as using reverse lettering for some headings
and standard print for the body of the text.

FYI, I wrote an article about universal design in print and Web-based
materials. You can find it on my Health Literacy Consulting Web site at
http://www.healthliteracy.com

Helen Osborne, MEd., OTR/L
Co-moderator, NIFL-Health
Author of "Overcoming Communication Barriers in Patient Education"
Phone: 508-653-1199 * Fax: 508-650-9492
mailto:Helen@healthliteracy.com
http://www.healthliteracy.com

----- Original Message -----
From: Christensen, Jeanne <ehc4@cdc.gov>
To: Multiple recipients of list <nifl-health@literacy.nifl.gov>
Sent: Thursday, April 12, 2001 2:25 PM
Subject: [NIFL-HEALTH:3019] RE: Reading Comprehension


> Thank you Sandra!  Following up on Wendy's point about text color, I was
> wondering if you or anyone else knows about readability of reverse text on
> colored background.  For example, a blue box with white writing on top.
>
> Thanks Jeanne
>
> E. Jeanne Christensen, MPH
> Communications and Education Branch
> Division of Tuberculosis Elimination
> National Center for  HIV, STD, and TB Prevention
> Centers for Disease Control and Prevention



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