Digital Course Materials and Applications
Syllabus
Include the NIU Accessibility Statement for Syllabi on all syllabi. Students have the right to request disability-related accommodations whether or not this statement is on the syllabus.
Create an Accessible Syllabus (pdf)
Create an Accessible Syllabus (html)
Courseware accessibility information
Online assignments and assessments
- If a mouse is required to navigate content or take a test, students with a visual or motor disability won't be able to access it.
- Students who are deaf or hard of hearing need videos to be captioned. Know how to turn on captions in the smart classrooms you use.
- Don't use color alone to convey information. If you do, students who use a screen reader or who are colorblind won't get that information.
- A scan is an image, even a scan of text. Screen readers can't read images.
Creating accessible Word documents and PDF's
Online class sessions
Read the text and describe images as if you have a visually impaired student. Even if you don't, your students may be in situations where they don't have consistent visual focus.
- Limit whiteboard board use by students if you have keyboard only users or screen reader users.
- When sharing a PowerPoint, describe what is on the slide and the slide number.
- Announce when you move to the next slide.
- Share documents to be used during the class before the class session.
Use good color contrast for people who are colorblind, have visual disabilities or are in difficult lighting or are using small devices.
