Alternative text (alt text) is descriptive text conveying the meaning of an image. When screen readers like Microsoft Narrator, JAWS, and NVDA reach content with alt text, the alt text […]
Read MoreOne of the standards of the Quality Matters™ rubric requires the accessibility policies of technologies used in courses. This post includes links to accessibility statements for course technologies.
Read MoreTextual alternatives to images should be provided for learners with visual and certain cognitive disabilities employing screen readers. This also enables images to be understood in the event that they are not displayed in the browser.
Read MoreTables should be used to display data. Avoid using tables for page layout, though it might be tempting to do so. Layout tables do not allow users flexibility in viewing the content since it is “trapped” in the table cell and might not be read in the correct order by a screen reader.
Read MoreAlly is a built-in tool that provides instructors with guidance on how to create accessible learning materials for all students. Ally automatically checks course content and files in Blackboard for common accessibility issues, gives feedback on how to improve the files, and creates alternative formats, such as audio files, electronic braille, or screen readable pdfs.
Read MoreIt is the student’s responsibility to request accommodations from the Center for Educational Access each semester.
Read MoreWhen using color to convey information there are several issues to consider to make sure that everyone gets the information regardless of ability.
Read MoreReadSpeaker has already been available as a text-to-speech tool within Blackboard Learn Original courses. ReadSpeaker TextAid allows for text-to-speech on any website, as well as within iFrame-embedded content inside of...
Read MoreYou should follow some general best practices when writing for online readers to make sure that text and hyperlinks are accessible for all readers regardless of ability.
Read MoreThe use of proper headings is one of the most important formatting cues for a screen reader user. Proper heading structure enables learners to understand the structural hierarchy of the document.
Read MoreTo make multimedia accessible includes creating text transcripts and captioning videos. The process is different across different video platforms.
Read MoreWe are piloting a new accessibility tool, ReadSpeaker, which will appear within Blackboard Learn in Summer 2020.
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