Office Mix and UDL

Microsoft PowerPoint is a tool that often gets a bad rap.  However, I think this is an unfair assessment, particularly with the relatively new introduction of Office Mix.  Office Mix not only changes the dynamics of PowerPoint, but it improves its accessibility for learners with special needs.

In terms of its usability, Office Mix is not a huge departure from PowerPoint.  If you already have some familiarity with PowerPoint or other slide-based presentation software, then the learning curve is minimal.  If, added to that, there is some comfort level with screencasting, then Office Mix will pose no problems at all to the new user.  If the user has no familiarity with PowerPoint, Google Slides, or any other slide-based presentation software, then some time may be needed to familiarize oneself with the more advanced features; however, making a simple presentation with slides and text should not be too difficult.  Creating a Mix may be a bit challenging to first-time users with little comfort level with adding video or recording audio.  Furthermore, special equipment such as a webcam and microphone may need to be acquired based on the computer setup the instructor is using.

So why bother?  What Office Mix essentially allows the instructor to do is add voice-over and picture-in-picture video to an existing PowerPoint presentation.  He or she can also insert a poll, quiz, video, webpage, or educational simulation into the presentation.  Thus the PowerPoint becomes more engaging and more interactive for the viewer who before had no role besides passive observer.  Once complete, the instructor can export the Mix to video and upload it to an LMS or publish it on a designated website which houses all of the instructor's Mixes.  From there, it can be shared via a link.  The learner simply clicks on the link or the video itself and can watch, listen, and interact with ease.

Office Mix toolbar which demonstrates its main functions

In terms of UDL, the Office Mix affords greater access to the presentation.  Not only can the instructor discuss what is on the slide through audio recordings, he or she can also use a webcam to create video as well.  Thus, those with vision problems can hear the presentation, and those with hearing disabilities can read the text as well as see the instructor.  If the learner reads lips, this video will make the presentation more accessible to the DHH student.  If the instructor knows ASL, then he or she can also sign the video which adds one more component in terms of its accessibility for all learners.  Furthermore, for those students with attention disorders, the instructor can "chunk" the presentation into smaller portions separated by interactive features, such as quizzes, polls, or short videos.  This variation will be beneficial for those students who struggle with watching or listening to a long presentation.

There is not much I would add to improve its usability or accessibility.  Perhaps Microsoft's toolbar could be a bit more streamlined, but again, anyone with familiarity with PowerPoint already will not find Mix to be a great departure.  What Mix does is take something we are all already familiar with and make it stronger and more accessible to all learners.