Video is defined as a visual presentation with
moving images. These can be live action or animation. Video
does not include a narrated slide (PowerPoint) or Storyline presentation of static images (see
Presentations With Audio for more information).
Captions include non-speech sounds, such as music or sound effects. They are an accommodation for people with a hearing loss. Captions are not accessible to a screen reader and, therefore, are not appropriate accommodation for people who are blind or have low vision.
Orbis-Produced Videos
For Orbis-created content (for example, learning objects), we will provide captions as appropriate. If you produce a video, it is recommended you first create a script and follow it as you record the video. If you deviate from your script, be sure to correct so it matches the recorded speech. Scripts are converted to an SRT (SubRip Subtitle) file, a common file format used for creating captions. The conversion can be done in house by either the ELD team for videos 20 minutes or less in length or sent out to a third-party service depending on the use case of the video.
This policy applies to transcripts for audio tracks as well. For more information on transcripts, see
Transcription Guidelines.
Request an SRT file and assistance with captioning by submitting a
ticket to the ELD team for files under 20 minutes or
by submitting a request to the QA team for files over 20 minutes. Allow ample time for the request to be met. Last-minute requests cannot be guaranteed unless they are a student accommodation request.
Content recorded by the SME, faculty member, or instructor is consider partner-produced video and, therefore, the responsibility of the partner to provide captions.
Partner-Produced Videos
The Orbis Accessibility Conformance Report (ACR) states the expectation that SMEs and faculty will comply with Orbis and partner accessibility requirements. The ACR is part of the accessibility expectations Orbis executive leadership reviews with all partners.
Orbis Best Practices regarding course design and the Orbis
ADA Compliance Checklist describe Orbis requirements for recorded video lectures. This includes creating lectures of an appropriate length and content, as well as providing captions following their institution or department ADA compliance guidelines.
For partner-created material (for example course lectures), Orbis does not provide the caption files. Partner-created materials should be supported by partner resources. If you are unsure, please talk to your department leadership for guidance.
At this time, Orbis does support student accommodation requests as needed. These decisions are made by executive leadership in collaboration with the partner.
Working With Faculty
If you are working with a faculty member creating their own video content, refer them to their university resources for assistance with captioning. This includes any video content the SME or instructor creates during course design and development, updates, or revisions.