When preparing your online course material there are things you can do to help ensure it is accessible for all students (including those with visible and invisible disabilities). Addressing these can make all the difference and doesn’t take up much of your time to do:

• Headings.
• Alt tags.
• Document Structure.

I will explain a few easy steps that can help you.

Headings

Use properly formatted headings and structure. Just because you make it bigger and bold, does not mean it is a heading! Headings chunk out your content, making it easier to read:

• Heading 1 is like the title of the book and there is only one heading 1 per page.
• Heading 2s are like chapter titles.
• Heading 3s are sub-sections of those chapters, and so on.

You want to make sure you do not use headings out of order.

Image alt tags

Images in documents are effective for conveying visual data. In order for the information to still be useful to someone who cannot see the image, it is necessary to explain the image as completely as possible. This is done by adding meaningful alt tags to images. If the image is just for decorative purposes only then add the word null to the image alt tag so the screen-reader does not read the image. It is good practice to not use images excessively.

Document Structure

Structure in a document refers to creating and maintaining a logical reading order for your documents. Sighted users have the benefit of being able to scan document information and automatically bypass information not pertinent to what they are looking for. Non-sighted users rely on assertive technology such as screen-reading software to have the content read to them. A properly structured document involves the consistent use of heading an paragraph tags, which provide a logical reading order for the document. Below are some tips when working with PowerPoint and Word. Use a San Serif font like Helvetica, Arial or Verdana because these fonts will magnify well.

PowerPoint

When using PowerPoint, make sure to use the slide templates provided. A screen-reader reads the slides in the order they are created. Instead of inserting and creating many text boxes use the pre-formatted slide templates to create your content. Do not use a font smaller than 24pt.

Word

When using Word make sure to use formatted lists, either bulleted or numbered. Do not use the space bar, increase/decrease indent, or tab key to create lists! Do not use a font smaller than 10pt.

These simple steps can and will  make a difference to all  your students.