Related toolsMaking documents and course materials that are accessible to all your students might sound momentous, but all it takes is 7 simple steps. In addition to removing barriers, these steps are frequently time-saving for you, the creator (e.g., using built-in lists is less typing than manually created lists and is better for assistive technology, like screen readers). See the Notes under each step below to see these “power-ups.”
Create Inclusive Documents
in 7 Simple Steps
1. Headings
Structure documents and web pages using built-in headings based on the organizational hierarchy of the document.
Notes:
Bonus! If I use headings then I can change font & size & what-not, and it will update all of them automatically!
2. Images
Describe the purpose or content conveyed by an image using alternative text, imagining what text you’d have used if not using the image.
Notes:
Screen readers need text to describe an image for those who can't see it.
3. Links
Use link text that describes the link’s destination or function. Instead of “click here” or “read more” use “read more about Psychology 101.”
Notes:
Screen readers only say the link text - "Click Here" is like asking someone to go down a dark alley, not knowing where it leads.
4. Color
Use text colors that strongly contrast with the background. Don’t use color as the only way to identify something.
Notes:
Strong contrast makes it easier on everyone's eyes.
5. Lists
Format numbered or bulleted lists using the built-in list buttons.
Notes:
Wow! By using built-in numbering, the computer will reorder things for me when I make changes. Thank you list-faeries!
6. Tables
Use the built-in table tool only for formatting tabular data (not for page layout), and include meaningful column and/or row headers to describe the data.
Notes:
Tables for data & the column tool for columns.
7. Video/Audio
Ensure all videos are accurately captioned, and provide transcripts for audio-only files.
Notes:
"My toes is..." instead of "Mitosis!?" What are the captioning robots claiming I said?