Use proper heading levels (H1, H2, H3, etc.) to organize content hierarchically.
Use the Headings in order - In Canvas, the list starts with Heading 2, because Title and Heading 1 are already used in the standard Canvas layout. For example, sample Headings could include: Overview, Introduction, Instructions, Examples, Grading.
Use built-in styles for bold, italics, and underline instead of relying on color alone. For example: Instead of using red text to highlight important information, use bold formatting.
Lists
Use numbered lists for sequences and bulleted lists for items without a specific order. For example: Use a numbered list for step-by-step instructions and a bulleted list for a list of resources.
Links
Use descriptive link text that indicates the link's destination. For example: "Read the full article on accessibility" instead of "Click here".
Ensure link text is descriptive and contextual. For example: "Download the syllabus" rather than "Click here".
Tables
Use tables for data, not for layout. For example: A table showing class schedules with columns for date, time, and topic.
Images and Multimedia
Add alt text to all images that convey meaningful information. The alt text should be descriptive and convey the image’s purpose. For example: Alt text for a chart: "Bar chart showing enrollment numbers from 2019 to 2023".
Ensure that each image has descriptive alt text.
Alt text should convey the essential information or function of the image.
Keep alt text concise but informative (typically under 125 characters). Avoid phrases like "image of" or "picture of" as screen readers automatically announce it as an image.
Mark images as decorative that are purely decorative and do not convey any meaningful information.
Provide captions for all videos and include transcripts for audio content. For example: A video lecture should have captions and a text transcript available.
Specific Tools and Features
Use the built-in accessibility checker before publishing content. For example: Run the accessibility checker after creating a content page to ensure compliance.
Use high-contrast color schemes. For example: Black text on a white background.
Ensure all interactive elements are accessible via keyboard. For example: Test navigation through a content page using only the keyboard.
Specify the primary language of the content page. For example: Indicate that a Spanish-language page is in Spanish.
Use screen readers to test content. For example: Ensure all content is readable and navigable with a screen reader.