The Syllabus & Course Schedule
- Structure: Ensure the document uses real Heading styles (H1, H2, etc.) rather than just bold/large text.
- Tables: Ensure tables (like grading scales or calendars) have defined headers and do not use merged cells. (Hints & Tricks for Tables)
- Accessibility Statement: Include the required accessibility statement affirming the college’s commitment to accessible learning.
Course Readings & Documents (PDFs, Word, PPT)
- No “Scanned” PDFs: Check all PDF readings. If the text cannot be highlighted with a mouse (i.e., it is an image of text), it is non-compliant. It must be subjected to OCR (Optical Character Recognition) or replaced with a digital-native version.
- Images: Add “Alt Text” to all images, charts, and graphs.
- Links: Ensure all hyperlinks are descriptive (e.g., use “Register for Classes” instead of “Click Here”).
- Slides: Ensure PowerPoint slides use high-contrast colors and readable fonts. (Hints & Tricks for Slides)
Multimedia (Video & Audio)
- Captions: Verify that all instructional videos have accurate captions.
- Transcripts: Ensure all audio-only content (like podcasts) has a text transcript.
Learning Management System (Canvas)
- Run the Scan: Run the Canvas Accessibility Tool (UDOIT Advantage) on your course.
- Fix Critical Errors: Prioritize fixing errors in the syllabus, schedule, and required readings.
- Keyboard Navigation: Ensure the course navigation is consistent and can be navigated using only a keyboard.
Third-Party Content
- Vendor Check: If using publisher content (eBooks, simulations), confirm you are using the latest version, as older versions may not be compliant.
- Verification: Log these materials in the college inventory; if they lack accessibility documentation, flag them for remediation. (Vendor Accessibility Documentation)
Recommended “Quick Check” Workflow
- Step 1: Open your Syllabus in Word -> Run “Check Accessibility” -> Fix errors -> Save as PDF OR create a Syllabus Canvas Page. (Some colleges use Simple Syllabus).
- Step 2: Upload to Canvas.
- Step 3: Open Canvas Course -> Run UDOIT/Accessibility Tool -> Aim for Green (85%+).
- Step 4: Check the “Required Readings” module -> Ensure no readings are scanned images.