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Academic Accessibility

Creating accessible academic content ensures that all students, regardless of disability, can fully engage with course materials. This comprehensive guide outlines key steps to making content accessible in academia, with particular focus on tools like D2L and common file types.

Creating Accessible Content

D2L (Brightspace)

  • Structure & Navigation: Use clear headings, consistent formatting, and descriptive link text within D2L. Organize modules logically and provide alternative navigation options if needed.
  • Content: Ensure all content within D2L, including announcements, discussions, and assignments, adheres to accessibility standards. Provide text alternatives for images, captions, transcripts, and audio-descriptions for videos, and transcripts for audio content.
  • Quizzes & Assessments: Design quizzes and assessments that are accessible to all students. Consider offering alternative formats or accommodations as needed.

Microsoft Word

  • Heading Structure: Utilize built-in heading styles (Heading 1, Heading 2, etc.) to create a clear document structure for screen reader users.
  • Lists & Tables: Use list formatting and table styles for organized content. Ensure tables have clear headers and are accessible to screen readers.
  • Alt Text: Provide descriptive alt text for all images and charts.
  • Accessibility Checker: Utilize Word's built-in Accessibility Checker to identify and fix potential issues.

PowerPoint

  • Slide Titles & Reading Order: Use slide titles to convey key information and ensure the reading order is logical.
  • Alt Text & Slide Notes: Provide descriptive alt text for images and use slide notes to provide additional context or descriptions.
  • Color Contrast & Text Size: Ensure sufficient color contrast and use an appropriate font size for readability.
  • Accessibility Checker: Run PowerPoint's Accessibility Checker to identify and resolve accessibility barriers.

PDF

  • Accessible Creation: Create PDFs from accessible source documents (e.g., Word, PowerPoint) whenever possible.
  • Tags & Reading Order: Ensure PDFs have proper tags and a logical reading order for screen reader users.
  • Alt Text & Tables: Provide accurate alt text for images and ensure tables have clear headers and are accessible.
  • Accessibility Checker: Utilize Adobe Acrobat's Accessibility Checker to evaluate and improve PDF accessibility.

Excel

  • Sheet Titles & Column Headers: Use descriptive sheet titles and clear column headers.
  • Data Tables: Organize data in clear and simple tables with appropriate row and column headers.
  • Charts & Graphs: Make charts and graphs accessible by providing text descriptions or summaries.
  • Accessibility Checker: Use Excel's Accessibility Checker to identify and address any accessibility issues.

Checking Content for Accessibility

  • D2L Accessibility Checker: Use D2L's built-in accessibility checker to evaluate course content.
  • Manual Checks: Conduct manual checks to ensure keyboard navigation, screen reader compatibility, and color contrast compliance.
  • Assistive Technology Testing: Test content with screen readers, magnifiers, and other assistive technologies.
  • User Feedback: Seek feedback from students with disabilities to identify potential barriers.

Getting Support

  • Disability Services: Consult with your institution's Disability Services office for guidance and support.
  • Accessibility Resources: Utilize online resources and tutorials on creating accessible content.
  • Training & Workshops: Attend training sessions or workshops on digital accessibility.
  • Collaborate: Work with colleagues and instructional designers to ensure content is accessible.

Creating accessible academic content requires intention and effort, but it's crucial for fostering an comprehensive learning environment. By understanding the nuances of accessibility within D2L and common file types, and utilizing available tools and support, you can create content that benefits all students.

Accessibility is an ongoing process. Stay informed about best practices and commit to creating all-encompassing educational experiences for everyone.

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