According to the W3C, web accessibility “…means that websites, tools, and technologies are designed and developed so that people with disabilities can use them.” Web accessibility encompasses all disabilities and also benefits people without disabilities. This 7-minute video titled: Web Accessibility Perspectives Video (YouTube) is a good example of how accessibility is helpful to everyone, but essential for people with disabilities.
Few resources that are helpful so you can ensure your content meets the accessibility guidelines are:
- ADA.gov – This website provides guidance on how state and local governments and businesses open to the public can make sure that their websites are accessible to people with disabilities as required by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
- WAVE (Web Accessibility Evaluation Tool) – This website provides a suite of evaluation tools that helps authors make their web content more accessible to individuals with disabilities. You can enter a webpage address and it will provide you with a detailed accessibility report.
- W3C Web Accessibility Initiative – This website provides a detailed explanation of web accessibility as well as accessibility fundamentals.
- Section508.gov – This website provides detailed information about Section 508 (federal law) as well as an overview of testing methods, tools to test websites, software, and electronic documents to ensure they conform with Section 508 Standards.
- Accessibility Checker in Canvas – The Canvas learning management system includes an accessibility tool that detects common accessibility errors within the course. The accessibility checker scans pages and assignments and can be used to design the course while considering accessibility attributes.
To learn more about accessibility (website, document, etc.), I encourage you to visit the sites above. I hope you get a better understanding of how accessibility is essential for people with disabilities yet helpful to everyone so you can educate yourself and those around you.