Various organizations and companies may need to create eLearning with accessibility features to comply with Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act. Section 508 requires federal agencies in the United States to make their electronic and information technology accessible to people with disabilities. This ensures that individuals with disabilities can fully access and benefit from the eLearning content, promoting inclusivity and equal learning opportunities for all.
Ensure that all functionalities and interactions within the eLearning modules can be operated using a keyboard alone. For instance, do not use the Drag and Drop interaction, as the learner would require a mouse.
TIP FROM OUR EXPERTS – At the beginning of the course, include instructions on navigating the module and explain the necessary keyboard shortcuts.
Our experts can show you ways to accomplish this or do it for you!
Use sufficient color contrast between the text and background to make the content readable for individuals with visual impairments. Aim for a minimum contrast ratio of 4.5:1 for standard text and 3:1 for large text.
TIP FROM OUR EXPERTS – Don’t mix too many colors. Keep it simple! When in doubt, use white or a light background color with black text.
Our experts can show you ways to accomplish this or do it for you!
Provide captions or transcripts for audio and video content. This benefits individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing and allows them to understand the information presented.
TIP FROM OUR EXPERTS – Do not auto-start audio on a slide. It will conflict with the screen reader audio and cause it to overlap. If the development software allows, provide a button to start and stop audio playback.
Our experts can show you ways to accomplish this or do it for you!
Design the eLearning modules with clear and consistent navigation. Use headings, lists, and proper structure to facilitate easy navigation for individuals using assistive technologies.
TIP FROM OUR EXPERTS – Allow the learner to use the tab key to navigate and check the tabbing order. The screen is read from top to bottom and left to right.
Our experts can show you ways to accomplish this or do it for you!
Use descriptive and meaningful text for hyperlink text instead of generic terms like "click here" or "learn more." This helps individuals using screen readers understand the purpose of the link.
TIP FROM OUR EXPERTS – Instead of saying click here, you could write, "Click for more information on the Leader Development Series."
Our experts can show you ways to accomplish this or do it for you!
Use easy-to-read font color and size. Use plain language and avoid complex terminology or technical terms whenever possible.
TIP FROM OUR EXPERTS – Limit the number of font styles in the course and provide proper semantic header tags such as h1, h2, and h3.
Our experts can show you ways to accomplish this or do it for you!
Do not use background images and photos that add no value to the learning. Use images that help explain the content.
TIP FROM OUR EXPERTS – If using stock photos for design purposes, use an empty Alt tag so the screen reader can skip over that image. Provide text alternatives for non-text content such as images, charts, and graphs, ensuring learners with visual impairments can access the information through screen readers or braille devices.
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Ensure that forms and interactive features can be navigated and completed using assistive technologies. Provide a visible focus indication, such as a highlighted outline or color change, to indicate which form field or interactive element currently has focus.
TIP FROM OUR EXPERTS – Use proper labels and instructions for all form fields and interactive elements to make is easier for screen readers to identify and announce them accurately.
Our experts can show you ways to accomplish this or do it for you!
Make sure to have the modules reviewed by an assistive technology tester. These professionals specialize in evaluating digital content and technologies for compliance with Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act.
TIP FROM OUR EXPERTS – Test the eLearning module! It's crucial to consult accessibility guidelines and collaborate with experts in accessibility and disability services to ensure that your eLearning modules meet the requirements.
We can help if you need to learn more or need to conduct thorough accessibility testing.
Lectora: Lectora is known for its accessibility-friendly features. It provides options for adding closed captions, alt-text, and accessible navigation controls. It also supports compatibility with screen readers.
Articulate Storyline: Storyline is a popular eLearning authoring tool that provides features and functionalities to create accessible courses. It supports the creation of alt-text for images, closed captions for audio and video, and ensures keyboard accessibility.
Adobe Captivate: Captivate is another widely used eLearning authoring tool that offers accessibility features. It allows the creation of closed captions, alt-text for images, keyboard navigation, and other accessibility enhancements.
Regardless of where you are with your project, we can help facilitate a smooth and seamless transition toward achieving Section 508 compliance. Our team at Brookwood understands the importance of accessibility and possesses the expertise to ensure that your modules meet the necessary standards.
Whether you require assistance conducting thorough accessibility testing, implementing necessary modifications, or providing guidance throughout development, our professionals can support you.
Don't hesitate to contact us with your projects and let us demonstrate how we can contribute to making your digital content inclusive for all users.