Accessible Course Content Resources

In preparing course content, the following workflow aligns with how Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) are intended to be used in practice: build accessibility into your content from the start, then test and refine using supporting documents and tools. Keep in mind that no tool is perfect, so manual spot checks are a must along the way.

Practical workflow for course content creation

  • Structure: Headings are real headings (not just bold text); lists are real lists; reading order makes sense. 
  • Links: Link text is descriptive (do not use “click here”).  
  • Images: Meaningful images have helpful text; decorative images are marked decorative when possible.  
  • Color/contrast: Use color sparingly to ensure maximum viewability. Ensure sufficient contrast between text and background colors.
  • Video/audio: Prerecorded video has edited captions; audio-only has a transcript; key visual info is described (audio description or descriptive transcript when needed).   
  • Files: Run the built-in accessibility checker ( Word or PowerPoint) and fix the issues it flags. 

Document checklist

When creating Word Documents or Google Documents and converting them to a PDF, consider the following:

  • Headings: Use built-in heading styles; headings are descriptive and nested logically.  
  • Tables: Tables are for data (not for layout); header rows/columns are identified; avoid merged/split cells where possible.  
  • Links: Link text describes destination/purpose.  
  • Images: Alt text provided; complex visuals have a nearby text explanation or linked data.  
  • Color and contrast: Not for color-only; show readable contrast.   
  • Export: Export to PDF in a way that preserves tags/structure; then verify in a PDF checker.

PowerPoint checklist 

  • Every slide must have a unique title (even if visually hidden).   
  • Use built-in slide layouts whenever possible.  
  • Verify reading order using the Reading Order features.   
  • Add alt text or mark decorative visuals as decorative.  
  • Avoid low contrast and text-heavy images of text.  

Video checklist 

  • Captions are present and reviewed for accuracy (names, terminology, punctuation).  
  • Provide a transcript (especially helpful for study and necessary for audio-only and for some disability needs).   
  • If key information is visual (charts, text on screen, demonstrations), provide an audio description or a descriptive transcript.   
  • For live sessions that are required/graded, arrange live captions when needed.  

Blackboard Ally

Blackboard Ally is a digital accessibility checker embedded in Blackboard that helps identify digital course content to make it more accessible and inclusive. It automatically checks files and pages for accessibility issues and provides alternative formats to support a wide range of user needs and preferences. Students benefit from alternative formats that suit their learning preferences, while instructors receive guidance on improving the accessibility of their course materials. The following resources have been created to support the use of Ally.

Ally & Accessibility Overview: Ally Overview, Understanding Accessibility Requirements, Ally Reports & Feedback

Improving Content Accessibility: A collection of “How To” Guides to address accessibility issues in files and Bb digital content.