The most effective way to create accessible course materials is to start at the source. While tools like Blackboard Ally, color contrast checkers, and Adobe Acrobat help identify and fix accessibility issues, many of these challenges can be avoided entirely by building accessibility into your documents and forms from the beginning.

As Austin Community College (ACC) approaches the April 24 digital accessibility compliance deadline, this final installment focuses on simple, proactive steps faculty can take to ensure materials are accessible before they are ever uploaded or shared.

Starting With Source Documents

Most accessibility issues originate in the original file, whether that’s a Word document, Google Doc, slide deck, or form. When these materials are created with accessibility in mind:

• PDFs export more cleanly and require less remediation
• Blackboard Ally scores improve automatically
• Students can navigate and engage with content more easily

Starting accessible saves time and reduces the need for fixes later.

Creating Accessible Documents (Word and Google Docs)

When building course materials, a few key practices can make a significant difference:

• Use built-in heading styles: Apply Heading 1, Heading 2, etc., to create a clear structure that screen readers can interpret.
• Use true lists and formatting tools: Use bullet or numbered list features instead of manually typing dashes or numbers.
• Add alternative text to images: Provide brief descriptions so students using screen readers can understand visual content.
• Write descriptive link text: Avoid “click here.” Instead, use meaningful text like “view the course syllabus.”
• Create accessible tables: Use header rows and avoid overly complex table structures.

These practices carry through when documents are converted to PDFs or uploaded into Blackboard.

Creating Accessible Forms

Forms are often overlooked but play an important role in accessibility. Whether using Google Forms or other tools, consider the following:

• Write clear, descriptive questions
• Provide instructions or context where needed
• Avoid relying on color alone to convey meaning
• Ensure a logical, easy-to-follow question order
• Clearly indicate required fields

Accessible forms improve usability for all students and reduce confusion or barriers to completion.

Use Built-In Accessibility Checkers

Before sharing materials, take advantage of tools already available to you:

• Microsoft Word Accessibility Checker
• Microsoft PowerPoint Accessibility Checker
• Google Docs Accessibility Features
• Grackle for Google Slides

These tools can quickly identify issues and guide you toward improvements before content is distributed or uploaded.

Get Support: You Don’t Have to Do This Alone

One-on-one consultations with instructional designers provide personalized guidance on accessibility best practices (check the ID list here, or email [email protected] if you don’t see a designer listed next to your name). This service can help you build efficient workflows and ensure your content meets accessibility standards.

Act Now to Meet the Deadline

With the April 24 digital accessibility compliance deadline approaching this Friday, now is the time to focus on how materials are created, not just how they are fixed. Prioritizing accessible documents and forms will reduce remediation work and support a more inclusive learning experience for all students. Review the complete Building Accessible Courses blog post series and improve your course materials today!