Start by doing what’s necessary; then do what’s possible; and suddenly you are doing the impossible.
Francis of Assisi
Accessibility can feel like a large and complex requirement, but it becomes manageable when approached step by step. The goal is not perfection on the first attempt, but steady improvement that supports all learners.
On this page you’ll find two prototypes of accessibility assistants created to support instructors in reviewing course materials for WCAG 2.1 Level AA. They demonstrate different approaches to surfacing accessibility considerations during course development.
Four Core Principles of Accessibility (POUR)
Before using the Accessibility Assistant tools below, take a moment to review the four core principles that guide WCAG 2.1 Level AA.
1. Perceivable
Perceivable content can be seen, heard, or otherwise detected by all learners. This includes adding alt text to meaningful images, providing captions or transcripts for media, and using strong colour contrast. These practices help ensure that key information is available to students regardless of sensory or situational barriers.
2. Operable
Operable content allows students to navigate, interact, and complete tasks without barriers. This includes ensuring keyboard access, predictable focus order, and controls for any moving or timed content. Good operability supports learners who rely on assistive technology or alternative input methods.
3. Understandable
Understandable content is clear, consistent, and easy to follow. Instructions use plain language, links and buttons communicate their purpose, and course patterns remain predictable across modules. These practices reduce cognitive load and help all students complete tasks with confidence.
4. Robust
Robust content works reliably with different devices, browsers, and assistive technologies. This involves using structured documents, avoiding scanned text, and checking visibility in student view. Robustness ensures that materials remain usable as technology changes.
Accessibility Assistants: Which Works for You?
Let’s compare two versions of an interactive Accessibility Assistant designed to help instructors review their course materials for WCAG 2.1 Level AA readiness. Both versions are based on the same accessibility checklist, which is also available for download as a PDF file.
Share your preference at the end of the page in the short poll.
Accessibility Assistant: Checklist-Guided
This version provides a structured, decision-based review grounded in the same accessibility checklist. Instructors move through a short series of prompts that surface common WCAG-related issues and offer focused prelaunch recommendations.
Accessibility Assistant: AI-Based
This prototype uses a curated WCAG knowledge base to give instructors quick accessibility feedback on short pieces of text. Paste a sample of any academic text, like assignment instructions or a weekly overview, and the assistant will highlight strengths and potential issues before launch.