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Open Educational Resources (OER): Accessibility for OER

Information and resources for finding, creating, and engaging with OER

Accessibility Considerations When Creating OER

  1. Textual Accessibility

    • Clear and readable fonts

    • Font size

    • Color contrast

    • Use headings, subheadings, and bullet points

  2. Alternative Text

    • Descriptions for images, graphs, charts, and other visuals

    • Concise and accurate description of image

  3. Captioning and/or Transcripts

    • Captions for deaf or hard of hearing

    • Transcripts to read during presentation/meeting or to review after

    • Ensure accuracy & synchronize

  4. Multimedia Accessibility

    • Provide as many as possible of following:

      • Closed captions

      • Audio descriptions

      • Transcripts

    • Video formats compatible with assistive technologies

    • Controls for playback speed and volume

  5. Color Accessibility

    • Consider color blindness principles

    • Use sufficient contrast

    • Avoid using color to convey critical information (Use additional cues or text descriptions)

  6. Navigation and Structure

    • Use headings and subheadings

    • Provide table of contents, page numbering, or bookmarks

  7. Readability

    • Use clear and concise language

    • Avoid jargon, acronyms, technical terms

    • Avoid complex sentence structure

  8. Compatible with Assistive Technology

    • Needs compatibility with screen readers, screen magnifiers, and alternative input devices

    • Test compatibility with the devices

  9. User Testing and Feedback

    • Test with individuals who have accessibility needs

    • Use feedback to modify materials

  10. OER Accessibility Statements

    • Include accessibility statement to informs users of the features used

    • Clearly communicate limitations

    • Provide contact information so users can report accessibility issues