Digital accessibility is often misunderstood, as there are many myths surrounding it that can prevent progress toward creating inclusive online spaces. Let’s address and debunk some of digital accessibility’s most common misconceptions.
Myth 1: Making Content Accessible is Too Difficult and Time-Consuming
A frequently heard myth is that making content accessible requires extensive effort and resources. In truth, accessibility can be easily integrated during the design phase without major time investments. Simple adjustments, like ensuring images have alt text or using proper headings to structure content, make a big difference and are relatively straightforward to implement.
Myth 2: Only People with Disabilities Benefit from Accessibility
While digital accessibility is essential for individuals with disabilities, it benefits everyone. Features like captions on videos can help those in noisy environments (think about how loud airports or coffee shops can be!), while clear and organized content is easier for everyone to navigate. Accessible design is about creating a better user experience for all, ensuring that everyone can access and understand digital materials.
Myth 3: Accessibility Only Matters for Certain Websites or Organizations
Many assume that accessibility is only important for large corporations or government entities. However, accessibility is important for all online environments. Educational institutions, small businesses, and even independent course creators are responsible for providing accessible content, and there are legal requirements to ensure these standards are met.
Myth 4: Accessibility is Just About Meeting Legal Requirements
While meeting legal standards is important, accessibility is about more than just compliance. It’s about fostering inclusivity and ensuring that all users, regardless of their abilities, have equal access to online content. Prioritizing accessibility enhances the experience for everyone and promotes equity in digital spaces.
Myth 5: Accessibility Features Are Only for Visual Disabilities
Accessibility addresses a wide range of needs beyond visual impairments. It includes support for people with auditory, cognitive, and motor impairments, among others. Providing alternative methods of interaction, like keyboard navigation or speech-to-text features, ensures that all users can interact with digital content in ways that work best for them.
By addressing and debunking these myths, we can move toward a more inclusive and accessible digital world, where everyone has equal access to the information and resources they need.
Upcoming Events
Canvas Accessibility Week
February 17-20, 2025
This week-long series will cover a variety of accessibility concerns that are important in online courses and any courses using the Canvas LMS. Led by Clemson Online Digital Learning Strategists, Canvas Accessibility Week will teach you the tips and best practices for making your instructional content accessible for all learners.
All sessions will be held over Zoom and Zoom recordings will be sent out to all who register. Click here to register for individual sessions or the entire series.
Contact Millie Tullis with any questions about our Digital Accessibility Week.
Clemson Online Spring 2025 Events Calendar
Review our Spring 2025 Events Calendar to see what Online Instruction Development opportunities await!
We have a robust lineup of topics and live training formats to support your use of Canvas and other e-learning tools. Topics cover demonstrations of using Kaltura, engaging your students, and workshops to get your Canvas site ready to teach!
All of our live training is recorded. Registrants will automatically receive a link to that day’s video after it has been processed.
Contact Millie Tullis with any questions regarding these sessions.
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