Digital accessibility designs and formats content so that people with disabilities can perceive, understand, navigate, and interact with it. This includes screen-reader users, keyboard-only users, and users who rely on captions or transcripts.
To help ensure your materials are accessible, use S.L.I.D.E. as a quick checklist when creating or updating content. It highlights key areas to review so your course remains accessible and inclusive for all students.
Use built-in styles (such as headings, lists, and paragraph formats) to create structured, readable content. Avoid using bold or color alone to convey meaning.
Write descriptive hyperlinks that clearly indicate where they lead (e.g., “View the syllabus” instead of “Click here”). Ensure links are functional and open in a consistent, accessible way.
Add meaningful alternative text (“alt text”) to all images that convey information. For decorative images, mark them as decorative so screen readers can skip them.
Create a clean, consistent layout with high color contrast, clear navigation, and logical organization. Ensure that content is accessible on both desktop and mobile devices.
Regularly check your Canvas pages and materials for accessibility compliance using built-in accessibility checkers or tools like Ally. Update content as needed to maintain accessibility.
UDL is a framework for designing learning experiences that offer multiple ways for students to engage, access information, and demonstrate knowledge. Many accessibility practices—clear organization, flexible formats, consistent course structure—are natural components of UDL.
