What this page helps you do

Top tasks

Task Steps Primary Tools
Respond to accommodation letters Review DRC letter → Confirm logistics with student → Adjust assessments/Deadlines. DRC Instructor Portal, email
Build accessible Brightspace modules Use templates → Add alt text → Run accessibility checker → Publish materials. Brightspace Next, UCATT templates
Caption instructional media Record in Panopto → Edit captions → Upload transcripts → Share with class. Panopto, UCATT Multimedia

Impactful principles & tools

Accessibility stays manageable when you pair consistent principles with the right tools. Use these expandable guides (aligned to WCAG 2.2 AA highlights) each time you prep course content.

Course structure & navigation

Focus on SC 1.3.1, 2.4.3, and 2.4.11 by keeping Brightspace modules in a logical order, revealing focus outlines, and avoiding “mystery meat” links.

  • Run Accessibility Insights on course homepages to confirm headings and landmarks.
  • Spot-check with WAVE or DubBot before publishing or copying course shells.
Documents, slides, and PDFs
  • Run the Microsoft Accessibility Checker inside Word, PowerPoint, and Excel; remediate all errors before sharing.
  • Create alt text that conveys purpose (follow WebAIM’s alt text guidance).
  • When exporting PDFs, tag headings, set reading order, and label form fields using the Adobe remediation guide.

Store both the accessible source file and the tagged PDF in case accommodations require edits.

Media, labs, and assessments

Meet SC 1.2.x and 3.3.x by captioning Panopto/Zoom recordings, offering descriptive audio for visuals, and providing clear error recovery.

  • UCATT Multimedia can edit machine captions to reach 99% accuracy.
  • For labs or simulations, provide text alternatives or recorded walkthroughs.

Guidance

Accommodation workflow
  1. Read each DRC letter fully; note testing, communication, and material deadlines.
  2. Reply within 2 business days confirming how accommodations will be implemented.
  3. Document agreements in Brightspace announcements or email for transparency.

Do: Offer multiple participation methods. Don’t: Delay accommodations until after the first assignment.

Accessible course content
  • Use the Brightspace checklist for headings, alt text, and color.
  • Upload documents that pass Word/Google accessibility checkers.
  • Provide redundant formats (slides + tagged PDF + HTML) for complex visuals.
  • Cross-check modules with WebAIM course content resources to ensure lists, links, and tables read correctly.
  • Use Deque’s ARIA patterns when embedding custom simulations or LTI tools.
Media & assessments

Submit caption requests via Panopto, plan exams so extended time can be delivered seamlessly, and provide audio-described alternatives for visual labs.

Tools & contacts

DRC Instructor Portal

View accommodation letters, confirm logistics, and contact Access Consultants.

Open portal

UCATT Teaching Resources

Templates, workshops, and one-on-one consults for inclusive pedagogy.

Visit UCATT

Panopto Caption Support

Request machine or professional captions; learn how to edit transcripts.

Caption guide

Assistive technologies to plan for

Students and co-instructors may rely on the following tools when using your course materials. Ensure demos, labs, quizzes, and custom tools work with them.

See the Assistive Technology Coverage overview for training links and test scripts.

Training & community

Feedback

Email accessibility@arizona.edu with course questions or submit a consultation request. Last reviewed: 2026-01-05.

Next steps for faculty

For assistance, request a consultation via the Accessibility consultation form.

Your work may overlap with these roles:

Creating Content?

For accessible documents, slides, and media guidance.

Content creators

Understanding Students

See what students experience when requesting accommodations.

Student guide

All Roles

Browse all role-based guides.

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