All media hosted on a WVU webpage or social media account, or shown publicly, must include appropriate closed captioning.
When creating media, it is important to give yourself enough time to ensure that the final video will be accessible for viewers with Disabilities. All media hosted on a WVU webpage or social media account must include appropriate closed captioning. This includes events that are recorded live and posted at a later date. Professional captions should be posted within one month of upload (and sooner if a viewer specifically requests it).
Audio-only files or de facto audio files (e.g. videos with a black screen, static image, or visual element that does not meaningfully correspond with the spoken content) may offer a text transcript of all spoken content in lieu of captions. This can be posted as a supplementary file. They do not, however, require timed on-screen captions if there is no meaningful link between the visual content and the audio content.
All pre-recorded media shown at public events on WVU's campuses must also be shown with closed captioning and cannot be limited to "on demand" or "by request." This remains true, even if guests are required to register for the event in advance.
CUSTOM CLOSED CAPTIONING REQUESTS
In addition to accommodating students, OSA accepts custom closed captioning requests throughout the year from members of the WVU community. These requests are
not directly associated with a student’s accommodations. While we cannot guarantee
specific turnaround dates, videos will be prioritized by their pending show dates
and in most cases will arrive ahead of schedule. Currently, there is no fee for
these custom closed captioning requests.
OSA is also happy to provide guidance for individuals who wish to caption their own media. Automated and machine-generated captioning do not meet the standard required for effective public accommodation.
If you have questions regarding closed captioning, please contact Kelly Barnard.
When inquiring, please include the following information:
- Course or event information, as applicable (e.g., number, section, instructor name and contact info, event info, etc.)
- Media URL(s)
- Video name(s)
- Show date(s) (this will be used to prioritize requests)