Making a course accessible can seem like a daunting process. The first step is to brainstorm ways to incorporate accessibility and UDL from the outset, to make the course inherently more inclusive and flexible regarding delivery, content, modalities, and course policies. As you set up your course, think about flexible options that are feasible for all learners, and then consider how you may adapt if you receive an accommodation letter. If you do receive an accommodation letter, work directly with Student Disability Services (SDS) to help learners who need these services.
Once you’ve addressed your learners’ individual needs, here are a few additional steps you can take to improve your course’s accessibility:
- Learn more about the role you play in creating an accessible learning environment, and how we share responsibility for accessibility.
- Provide a syllabus statement on accessibility & accommodation.
- Review your course materials and assignments, using the following tools as a guide.
- Review Canvas pages, assignments, and announcements using the Canvas Accessibility Checker.
- Review Word documents and PowerPoint slides using the Office Accessibility Checker before uploading to Canvas.
- Review your course’s Ally Accessibility Report and Scores.
- Look back at your learning outcomes and remove or replace inaccessible materials that do not align with them. Work towards remediating the remaining course materials and assignments. As an instructor, remember you are the best judge of what is most important to your students. Start with this knowledge, and work from there.