10 Key Accessibility Principles for Learning Designers

At The Learning Pro Academy, we believe that everyone should have equal access to educational opportunities. As we prepare to launch our new course, "Level UP: Accessibility," we'd like to share 10 essential accessibility principles that every learning designer should know. These principles will not only help you create inclusive learning experiences but also ensure that your content is accessible to all learners.

1. Understand and Implement Universal Design for Learning (UDL)

Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is a framework that helps learning designers create content that is accessible and engaging for all learners. UDL focuses on three primary areas: providing multiple means of representation, action and expression, and engagement. By incorporating UDL principles into your course design, you'll create an inclusive learning environment that caters to diverse learning needs.

2. Provide Clear and Concise Content

When designing accessible learning materials, it's crucial to use clear and concise language. Avoid using jargon or complex terms, and make sure your content is easy to understand. Break down complex concepts into smaller, manageable chunks to help learners better absorb the information.

3. Ensure Proper Text Formatting

Text formatting plays a significant role in making your content accessible. Use headings and subheadings to structure your content, and choose fonts that are easy to read. Additionally, make sure your text has sufficient contrast against the background and use a font size that is easy to read for most users.

4. Utilize Alternative Text for Images

To make your learning materials accessible for visually impaired learners, use alternative text (alt text) for images. Alt text provides a description of the image, which can be read by screen readers, making your content more accessible.

5. Provide Transcripts and Closed Captions for Audio and Video Content

For learners with hearing impairments, providing transcripts and closed captions for audio and video content is essential. Transcripts provide a written version of the spoken content, while closed captions display the dialogue and important audio cues on screen.

6. Design Accessible Navigation

Make sure your learning materials are easy to navigate by creating a consistent and logical structure. Use descriptive and keyword-rich anchor text for internal links, allowing users to understand the link's purpose and destination.

7. Ensure Keyboard Accessibility

Some learners may rely on a keyboard to navigate through your content. Design your learning materials to be accessible via keyboard by ensuring all interactive elements, such as buttons and links, are easily accessible using the Tab key.

8. Test for Accessibility

Regularly test your learning materials for accessibility issues. Use accessibility checkers and testing tools, and consider involving users with disabilities in the testing process to ensure your content meets the needs of all learners.

9. Stay Updated on Accessibility Standards and Guidelines

Familiarize yourself with accessibility standards and guidelines, such as the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), and stay updated on any changes or new recommendations.

10. Encourage and Be Open to Feedback

Lastly, encourage feedback from learners and be open to making changes based on their suggestions. This will help you continually improve your learning materials and create a more inclusive learning environment.

At The Learning Pro Academy, our upcoming course, "Level UP: Accessibility," will delve deeper into these principles and more. We also offer personalized guidance through one-off 1-on-1 coaching sessions and coaching session bundles to help you become an expert in accessible learning design.

Sign up today to unlock your full potential as a learning designer and create inclusive, accessible learning experiences for all.