Body
Summary
Accessible Canvas courses create inclusive learning environments that remove barriers and support success for all students.
Environment
Canvas, Ally
Content
Improving accessibility in Canvas courses ensures that all students—regardless of ability, device, or learning environment—can fully engage with course content. Accessible design supports equity, compliance with legal standards, and enhances usability for everyone. By incorporating practices such as using headings, alt text, captions, and accessible file formats, instructors create inclusive learning experiences that reduce barriers and improve student success.
Quick Tips for Faculty
- Start with Accessibility in Mind: Design content to be inclusive from the beginning.
- Use Canvas’s Built-In Tools: Regularly run the Accessibility Checker and review Ally reports.
- Keep Content Simple and Clear: Avoid overly complex layouts or unnecessary graphics.
- Communicate Expectations: Inform students where to find accessible materials and encourage feedback.
- Stay Updated: Review institutional accessibility guidelines and Canvas updates regularly.
Step-by-Step Guide: Improving Accessibility in Canvas
Step 1: Use Canvas’s Accessibility Checker
- Click the Accessibility Checker icon in the Rich Content Editor and fix issues like missing alt text and color contrast.
Step 2: Add Descriptive Alt Text
- Provide meaningful alt text for images; leave blank only for decorative images.
Step 3: Ensure Proper Heading Structure
- Use built-in heading styles (Heading 2, Heading 3) for section titles.
Step 4: Provide Captions and Transcripts
- Add captions to videos and transcripts for audio content.
Step 5: Use Accessible Links
- Write descriptive link text instead of “Click here.”
Step 6: Check Color Contrast
- Ensure text and background colors meet WCAG standards; avoid using color alone for meaning.
Step 7: Use Accessible File Formats
- Upload tagged PDFs and structured Word files; run accessibility checks before uploading.
Step 8: Test with Student View
- Confirm content is navigable and readable; adjust based on feedback.
Additional Resources
Need Additional Help?
On behalf of OIT’s Instructional Design and Technology (IDT) team, we hope this tutorial is useful. If you encounter any difficulties or have questions related to this procedure, please contact our colleagues in OIT’s Support Center to have a help ticket created and assigned to the IDT team. You may contact the Support Center via email (supportcenter@uhcl.edu) or by telephone (281.283.2828). Once we receive your inquiry, a member of the IDT team will contact you as quickly as resources permit.