Brightspace Accessibility
There are many accessibility tools integrated in Brightspace. The Brightspace editor
(formerly known as the HTML editor) contains an accessibility checker that will detect
issues within your text and images. In addition, there is an integrated tool called
Anthology Ally that provides an accessibility score to files uploaded to your module
topics and that also indicates what needs to be done in order to improve the accessibility
of the file. For tutorials on these tools and more, please see .
Font size
Set font size to at least 20 pixels. In Microsoft Word, 12 points would be the minimum recommended font size, but
since Brightspace measures font size in pixels, instead of points, 12 pixels in size
is too small.
Headings
When typing in the Brightspace editor, use hierarchical (Heading 1, Heading 2, etc.) to identify headings and subheadings. Headings that
are created using heading styles allow people using screen reading software to jump
to different parts of a text.
Images and graphics
Include for all pictures, tables, graphs, charts and graphics. Alt text is a description
of images or other objects that have a visual component. Screen reading software reads
alt text out loud. If the picture or graphic is only used for decoration, check the
box 鈥淭his image is decorative鈥� in the alt text options. This will allow screen reading
software to disregard it.
Color
Make sure that there is appropriate contrast between the text and the background.
Light-colored text on the white background is difficult to see.
Don鈥檛 only use color alone to convey important information. For example, do not write
鈥淭ake note of the text in red.鈥� Instead, make the text red and bold, and then say 鈥淭ake note of the text in red and bold.鈥� This ensures that the
text will be accessible to those who are colorblind.
Lists
Create bulleted and numbered lists using the formatting options in the Brightspace
editor. Using the built-in formatting options ensures that screen reading software
will read the content in the correct order and identify structured text from body
text.
Video and audio notes
Ensure that contain accurate .
Hyperlinks
Avoid writing 鈥淐lick here for more information.鈥� Instead, write 鈥淪ee Majors and Programs for more information.鈥� Descriptive hyperlink text provides context that allows people
who use screen reading software to sort through the links on a page.
Math and Science
Both MathType and LaTeX are integrated in the Brightspace editor. Make sure to format
mathematical equations and scientific notation using these tools. If these tools are
not used, screen reading software will not read equations and scientific notation
using the correct terminology or order. For instructions on how to use these tools,
please see .
