We can empower or exclude by the way we communicate. We often think about literacy as an individual “problem” – that is, the individual receiving the information does not have the skills or capacity to understand. But what matters is not just how well a person can read what you write or understand what you say. It also matters how clearly you write it and say it. And it matters how you say it. Are you making a connection and communicating in a caring way?
It’s important that everyone in our community can access information and supports and achieve their goals. To achieve that we can use clear language. Simply put, clear language is a method of communicating that is easily understood. It applies to all forms of literacy and communication including written, oral, web-based, and social media.
We can ensure the printed materials we use to distribute information are in clear language. For example, breaking complex information into understandable chunks; using white space freely; using common, everyday words; and defining technical terms are just a few of the many ways we can make our written material clearer and more accessible.
Similarly, when we communicate face-to-face, we can do so in a way that is easily understood. Simple techniques such as pausing to allow the listener to process the information, checking for understanding, facing the listener and projecting an unhurried image, and repeating important messages can go a long way in helping people feel comfortable and more able to process and understand.
There are many benefits to adopting a clear-language approach. It results in fewer errors and misunderstandings. It helps people find what they need, understand what they find, and then act accordingly. Most importantly, a clear-language approach excludes no one and empowers everyone to make informed choices.
For more information about literacy and clear language, visit sunshinecoastliteracy.org.
