Creating Accessible Content

Keep in Mind During Design

The easiest way to make sure your course content is accessible is by keeping multiple modalities in mind from the start. Here are some simple ways to do that: 

• Use the accessibility checker in the Rich Content Editor (RCE) as you add content to Canvas pages for your course. This tool detects common accessibility errors and provides guidance on how to fix issues. Visit How do I use the Accessibility Checker in the Rich Content Editor as an Instructor? for more information. 
• Microsoft Office products have built-in accessibility checkers for your text documents and slide decks. 
• Use accessible fonts (sans-serif like Arial or Verdana). 
• Ensure a high color contrast between foreground elements and their background. 
• Use headings in sections of text to structure content in a logical order. Headings should also be used for tables. 
• Include alt-text for all images. For complex images, try using an AI tool to generate a description for you. 
• Use Canvas Studio to generate closed captions for videos. Videos uploaded to YouTube will auto-generate captions.

This Accessibility in Canvas Courses Checklist is a handy reminder of things to keep in mind while creating course content

Handy Checklist 

This checklist is a handy reminder of things to keep in mind while creating course content. Accessibility in Canvas Courses (PDF)