3 Key Accessibility Considerations for Online Faculty
As online education continues to grow and evolve, it’s essential that faculty prioritize accessibility to ensure that all students have an equal opportunity to succeed. Accessible online teaching is not only a moral imperative, but also a legal requirement under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). To create an inclusive online learning environment, faculty should first understand the importance of accessible digital content. This includes using a clear and consistent font, providing alternative text for images, and using closed captions for video and audio materials. By making these simple adjustments, faculty can significantly enhance the learning experience for students with visual or auditory impairments.
Beyond digital content, online faculty should also consider the accessibility of their course design and navigation. This includes using clear and concise headings, providing alt text for navigation buttons, and ensuring that all interactive elements can be accessed using a keyboard. By designing courses with accessibility in mind, faculty can help students with mobility or dexterity impairments to easily navigate the online course environment. Additionally, faculty should also provide alternatives for assignments and assessments that require specific software or technology, to accommodate students with varying abilities.
Finally, online faculty should be aware of the resources and tools available to support accessibility in online teaching. Many learning management systems now include accessibility features, such as auto-generated closed captions and alt text detection tools. Additionally, faculty can also use third-party tools and plugins to enhance accessibility, such as text-to-speech software and screen reader compatibility. By leveraging these resources and staying up-to-date on best practices, faculty can create inclusive online learning environments that meet the needs of all learners.