Accessibility in Action

Accessibility in Action

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Practical Strategies for Inclusive Learning Design

Description

💡What is this course about?

This course helps educators, instructional designers, and facilitators create inclusive learning experiences where every learner feels supported and engaged. Through interactive activities and real-world examples, you can practice strategies that remove barriers and create content promoting equity and belonging.

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Objectives

Course Objectives

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

Identify a key takeaway that can be used in a course or material.

Identify common accessibility barriers in learning environments.

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Design inclusive materials that promote equity and engagement.

Apply accessibility strategies to learning materials.

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Key Concepts

Key Concepts of the Course

Click on each concept to learn more, including key points.

Universal Design for Learning (UDL)

Inclusion

Accessibility

Topic 1

Why Accessibility Matters

Discover why accessibility matters when designing learning experiences for every learner.

Topic 1: Main Ideas

Why Accessibility Matters

• Accessibility ensures all learners can engage fully, regardless of ability or background.
• It’s about equity and meaningful learning experiences, not just compliance.
• Accessible design benefits everyone, improving usability and engagement.

Tooltip

Topic 1: Comparison

Accessibility Integrated

Accessibility Not Integrated

vs

Learners struggle to engage in, understand, and retain the content.

Learners are provided with flexibility, multiple means of engagement, and a welcoming environment.

Topic 1: Accessibility Examples

Captions help learners with hearing impairments or in noisy environments follow along and understand video content.

Alt text allows learners using screen readers or with visual impairments to access and understand image content.

Use this side of the card to provide more information about a topic. Focus on one concept. Make learning and communication more efficient.

Use this side of the card to provide more information about a topic. Focus on one concept. Make learning and communication more efficient.

Clear headings and navigation help all learners find and understand content quickly and easily.

Use this side of the card to provide more information about a topic. Focus on one concept. Make learning and communication more efficient.

Alt Text for Images

Captions on Videos

Headings & Navigation

Title

Title

Title

Write a brief description here

Write a brief description here

Write a brief description here

Make content easy to follow

Describe visuals for all learners

Help learners follow along

Topic 1: Quick Question

Topic 2

Common Barriers & Challenges

Recognize typical obstacles so you can anticipate and address them in the materials.

Topic 2: Common Barriers & Challenges

Barriers and Challenges

Poorly Structured Content

Inaccessible Multimedia

Poorly Structured Content

Technology Limitations

Limited Engagement Options

Providing multiple ways to complete assignments, like projects, discussions, or quizzes ensures all learners can demonstrate understanding.

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Topic 2: Overcoming Accessibility Barriers

Structure Content Clearly

Title

Title

Add Captions, Transcripts, and Alt Text

Use headings, lists, and intuitive navigation.

Use this side to give more information about a topic.

Ensure all multimedia and images are accessible.

Use this side to give more information about a topic.

Subtitle

Subtitle

Provide Multiple Ways to Engage and Demonstrate Learning

Title

Title

Test Across Devices and Tools

Check compatibility with assistive technology and different platforms.

Use this side to give more information about a topic.

Allow learners to access content and complete assignments in different ways.

Use this side to give more information about a topic.

Subtitle

Subtitle

Topic 2: Quick Question

What is one of the ways to overcome accessibility barriers?

Topic 3

Accessibility in Action: Practical Strategies

Identify some practical strategies you can start using right away when developing materials.

Topic 3: Practical Strategies

Strategy #1: Alt Text for Images

Strategy #4: Document Structure

Strategy #5: Multiple Ways to Engage

Strategy #2: Captions & Transcripts

Strategy #3: Color Contrast & Design

Strategy #6: Test Your Work

Topic 3: Key Takeaways

The key to incorporating the strategies is to start small. Pick one strategy and integrate it into your next course or resource. Remember, every step counts.

Which one of the strategies could you implement in your next project?

Jot it down—it helps to commit to action.

Evaluation

Test what you've learned and reflect on your digital experience.

Assessment

Captions on videos were originally designed for what kind of people?

Assessment

Assessment

What is a key to incorporating the strategies provided earlier?

Summary

Remember: Accessibility doesn't have to be overwhelming. Start small, start intentional, and start with one change that can make a meaningful difference.

Throughout this module, we explored what accessibility is, why it matters, common barriers and challenges, and some practical strategies you can incorporate into your courses or resources right away. When we prioritize accessibility, we're sending a powerful message to learners: You belong here. Your learning matters. It's about creating learning environments where students or employees feel supported, respected, and empowered to succeed.

Inspiring Quote

"Accessibility is not a feature, it's a social trend."

- Antonio Santos, accessibility advocate

References

• Canva Color Wheel

• WAVE Web Accessibility Evaluation Tool

• Accessibility in Action: Inclusive Design for Every Learner Episode

Do you have questions?

We are here to help you. If something was not clear or you want to delve deeper into any topic, don’t hesitate to contact us. Your curiosity is also part of the learning process.

Thank you for taking the course!

Universal Design for Learning

A framework for creating flexible learning environments for all learners. Key Point: Provide multiple ways to engage with content and demonstrate understanding.

Accessibility

Designing learning experiences that all learners can access and use. Key Point: Use captions, alt text, and clear navigation.

Inclusion

Creating environments where every learner feels welcomed and supported. Key Point: Consider diverse backgrounds and perspectives in your design.