Is there physical access to and within your classroom?
Is the building accessible?
Are the aisles wide enough for a student to maneuver through with a wheelchair, walker, cane, etc.
If this is a lab, is the equipment accessible and usable by students with diverse physical abilities?
Is the lighting adequate?
Can the students see what is written on the board from any seat in the classroom?
Are there windows that create glare, and if so, are there shades or blinds to control external light sources?
Are the acoustics adequate?
Can the students hear what you are saying from any seat in the classroom?
Are there any mechanical sounds that are creating a distraction, (i.e. hum of lights, fans/blowers in the ceiling or walls?) If so, you may want to consider using an amplification system in the room.
Attitudes and Etiquette
Is your classroom welcoming of a diverse student body?
Foster a positive learning environment.
Encourage students to succeed.
Establish behavior ground rules of mutual respect, civility, etc.
Ask students if anyone has any special needs that they meet with you to discuss them after class or at your office.
Do you have a syllabus and is it available in alternative formats, such as posted electronically on a website, printed in large print or in Braille?
Does your syllabus clearly state your name, office hours, contact information and availability?
Does it clearly state the name and edition of the textbook required and location of any other supplemental materials?
Does it clearly layout the workload and deliverables for the semester? This should include dates for assigned reading, exam schedules, project due dates, etc.
Is your grading formula clearly stated? (i.e. There will be 3 exams each worth 25%, 15% for participation and 10% for attendance.)
Presentation of Course Materials
Lecture
Monitor the speed and volume of your speech and remember to face the class when speaking.
Use clear and precise language, define terminology.
Repeat questions that are asked before answering them to ensure everyone hears the question.
Board Work
Write legibly and large enough so that is can be seen/read from any seat in the class.
Say what you are writing as you write on the board, avoid saying “this” or “here” when you are referring to what is written.
Be sure students have finished with their note taking before you erase the board and move on.
PowerPoint Presentations
Consider providing copies to students before class.
Be careful not to speak too fast since you are not writing what you say.
Be sure that the font size you are using can be seen from any seat in the classroom.
Be sure there is enough contract between the text and the background.