Starting Six
Accessibility Essentials

The following videos will give you a quick introduction to what Digital Accessibility is, why it matters, and some common elements discussed with talking about Digital Accessibility. The resources are not meant to make you an expert on digital accessibility but to get you comfortable with the elements commonly discussed in Digital Accessibility.

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What is Digital Accessibility?

Accessibility in Higher Education

Common Elements of Digital Accessibility

Color Contrast Accessibility

Part 1: Color Contrast Guidance

Part 2: Color Contrast Recommendations

We recommend sticking with basic white and black when possible or using the UTSA visual style guide with color contrast verified options.

Document Accessibility

Part 1: Document Guidance

Part 2: Document Recommendations

We recommend enabling and clearing errors in the Microsoft Accessibility Checker.
Also take 15-20 minutes to watch the Microsoft Accessibility Tutorials for the software you are using – the videos cover the basic essentials for improving your content.

Hyperlink Accessibility for URLs

Part 1: Hyperlink Guidance

Part 2: Hyperlink Recommendations

When posting URLs, hyperlink meaningful and descriptive text that can be understood out of context.

Image Descriptions or Alternative Text

Part 1: Alternative Text Guidance

Part 2: Alternative Text Recommendations

When thinking about image use, avoid using decorative and unnecessary images. If you do use images, be sure to include clear and concise descriptions for each image.
If am image requires a long description, it might be better to make that information visible for all learners but using the caption feature.

Media Accessibility

Part 1: Media Guidance

Part 2: Media Recommendations

Captions

Watch Do You Need Captions to learn more about captioning and our captioning program for videos you have created. If you would like to update captions on your own, watch:

Audio Descriptions

Watch Audio Descriptions to learn what audio descriptions are and how to weave them into content.

Table Accessibility

Part 1: Table Guidance

Part 2: Table Recommendations

First determine if a table is your only option. Tables are difficult for assistive technology to navigate. We recommend only using tables when essential.
If you are using a table:
– Always have a table title and an overview caption for learners
– Avoid blank or merged cells
– Always have a header row

Where Can I Go For Help?

Do you have questions? We have many resources available to support you on your journey with digital accessibility. Feel free to visit our Enhancing Digital Accessibility at UTSA page to learn more or click the button below to email our Digital Accessibility Team.

Starting Six Accessibility Essentials