Properly Scanned Documents
Having a proper digital copy of a document instead of a scan makes the document more usable for all students. It might make the document easier to read, especially for low-quality scans, and it also allows students to search through the document and find specific content, copy and paste sections of the document, and so on.
Alternative Formats
The Semantic HTML alternative format is fully responsive and mobile-friendly and makes it easier for all students to consume to content on their mobile device. The ePub alternative format makes it easy to change the visual display of a document and allows for annotations and highlighting to be added. The audio alternative format can be used during a commute, on a run, etc. The translated version alternative format can help second language students.
Captioned Video
Having a video with captioning or a transcript will make the video more usable for all students. It allows the student to search through the video and find specific parts, the video can still be watched in high-noise environment (for example, commuting), and so on.
Image Descriptions
Having an image with a quality description can make the image more usable for all students. It can help clarify the content of the image and how it connects to the surrounding context, make the image searchable, and so on.
Document Headings
Providing a good heading structure for a long document makes the document more usable for all students. It provides additional structure, which makes it easier to work through and process the content. It also allows for a table of contents to be generated, which can improve the navigability of the document.
Accessible Content Benefits Everyone
Alternative formats aren't limited to a select few. Students with undiagnosed disabilities, ESL learners, students prone to eye strain, and those who prefer having multiple ways to review course content all benefit when course materials are offered in a variety of formats.
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Flexibility
Students can use downtime (like their commute to class) for listening to and reviewing course materials.
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Portability
Mobile-friendly content helps students access content from any location, without the need for computer or internet.
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Adaptability
Auditory learners and students with a first language other than English can listen to text, not just read it.
PowerPoint Accessibility
Do you use PowerPoint slides in your course? By mastering a few, simple steps — such as using PowerPoint's built-in layouts, adding slide titles, and arranging content in logical reading order — you'll address some of the most common obstacles students encounter when accessing content in a PowerPoint presentation.
Checking Slides for Accessibility
Before addressing the accessibility of your slides, learn how to identify inaccessible slide content with two, easy-to-use tools.
Video Tutorial Support Article
Using Built-in Layouts
Learn how to build your presentations with a logical heading structure and reading order by using PowerPoint's built-in layouts.
Video Tutorial Support Article
Adding Slide Titles
Learn how to add visible and hidden slide titles so students using assistive technologies can navigate and follow the flow of content effectively.
Video Tutorial Support Article
Arranging Slide Content
Make sure all students can access content in a coherent and meaningful way by learning how to arrange content in logical reading order.
Video Tutorial Support Article
