Guidelines for an Effective Handout
Define: The purpose for the handout To give all the information To summarise information To provide a framework for note- taking When to give the handout within the session
Consider: The paper colour of the handout Students with learning difficulties find black text on white paper difficult to read Most students prefer coloured paper This helps with selection and organisation Use pastel shades; these do not detract from the text and images
Format and Organise: Define main headings/points – bold; underlined; italic Use a sans serif font such as Arial or Lucida Sans Font size at least 12 or larger Space the information Vary the alignment but do not fully justify the text Use bullet points or numbering
Ensure: Vocabulary is suitable for audience Differentiate for students with varying abilities Grammar, spelling and punctuation are correct – proof read Write in third person Put in logical order Try to fit onto one page
Rarely: Use web pages as Handouts unless as a back up to give URL addresses and links; they are too complicated to use usefully Check copyright
Conclude with: Learning outcomes Add footer with date and author's initials and typist’s if relevant Insert relevant logos Follow up with quiz or verbal questioning