Creating Inclusive Content: Accessibility and Universal Design

Ensuring ADA and Section 508 compliance is a top priority when creating course materials or web content. Regardless of the platform used, all digital content shared with students, faculty, or staff must meet accessibility standards.

This guide offers practical tools, platform-specific instructions, and support resources to help you design inclusive content that works for all users.

Accessibility ensures that everyone—including people with disabilities—can access and engage with your content. Designing with accessibility in mind improves usability for all and reduces the need for retroactive fixes. It also helps SVSU maintain compliance with federal laws and institutional values of equity and inclusion.

Quick Accessibility Checklist

  • Add accurate alt text to all meaningful images

  • Use clear structure: headings, lists, and proper reading order

  • Ensure high contrast and readable font sizes

  • Include captions or transcripts for all audio and video

  • Avoid using color alone to convey information

  • Write descriptive link text (e.g., "Download syllabus" instead of "Click here")

  • Run a built-in accessibility checker (Canvas, Word, PowerPoint, etc.)

Accessibility Resources and Accommodations Office

While we can provide general guidance, accessibility legislation continues to evolve. For the most up-to-date information and personalized support, please contact the

Accessibility Resources and Accommodations Office
989-964-7000
access@svsu.edu

Creating Accessible Media

All media shared online or across campus—whether embedded, linked, or downloaded—must include a transcript. For reused media, transcripts must be at least 99% accurate to comply with Section 508 and ADA standards.

While EchoVideo, Microsoft Stream, Teams, and Zoom offer auto-captioning, these tools require manual review and correction to meet accuracy standards. Common errors stem from:

  • Background noise

  • Rapid speech or interruptions

  • Strong accents

  • Technical language or jargon

Transcript and Captioning Support SVSU provides support for transcription and captioning within reasonable limits. Contact the Accessibility Resources and Accommodations Office to request assistance.

Please note: transcription and captioning can take several months, so submit your request at least one semester in advance.

Additional Resources

Canvas

EchoVideo

Adobe PDF Files

Word

Excel

PowerPoint

Outlook Mail Messages

OneNote

iClicker Audience Response

Top Hat 

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