Accessibility features in Learning Management Systems (Canvas) Jess Thompson

Objectives Demonstrate how an LMS (Canvas) can be used to apply the principles of Universal Design for Learning. Demonstrate tools to improve accessibility within the Canvas LMS. (These are ideas for you to pass on to faculty – don’t worry, there’s a handout.)

Universal Design for Learning Multiple means of representation The WHAT of learning (content) Multiple means of action/expression The HOW of learning (assessment) Multiple means of engagement The WHY of learning (motivation)

Multiple Means of Representation Deliver content in multiple ways Reinforce text with images, audio, videos Use LMS to provide digital copies of materials Provide captions/transcripts for media and alt-text for images Help students identify key ideas, concepts, and patterns by chunking material

Multi Means of Rep in Canvas Chunk with Modules Supplement Text

Example #1 Multiple Means of Representation in Canvas

Multiple Means of Action/Expression Allow students different ways to interact and demonstrate their knowledge: Remove unnecessary navigation buttons Avoid restricting/blocking access to materials Offer multiple types of assessment Balance quizzes/exams with writing, discussion, projects Use multiple question types within quizzes/exams

Multi Means of Action in Canvas Submission Types Question Types

Video demo of ESL “Quiz” Example #2 Video demo of ESL “Quiz” Quiz introduces vocabulary and the variety of question types allow students different ways to practice and apply vocabulary. Multiple Means of Action/Expression in Canvas

Multiple Means of Engagement Emphasize choice and relevance Give students options to choose from Multiple prompts to select from Multiple formats Open format entirely (if possible) Different readings (jigsaw activities) Give options for assignments, drop lowest grade

Multi Means of Engagement in Canvas Multiple Options Assignment Groups

ALLY: Accessibily in Canvas Ally integrates into Canvas in order to scan and flag accessibility problems. Identifies problematic files Explains problem and how to fix it Converts to accessible versions Provides institutional report Demo course

Hope you memorized all. of. this. Just kidding… there’s a handout: http://bit.ly/Canvas AccessPractices

Questions? jess.thompson@sbctc.edu http://bit.ly/CanvasAccessPractices http://bit.ly/a101public