Make Canvas Pages Accessible

Canvas pages allow instructors to organize course content using web-based formatting that works well with screen readers, mobile devices, and other assistive technologies. When content is built directly in Canvas instead of uploaded as files, it can be easier for students to navigate and interact with course materials.

Using a few accessibility practices when creating Canvas pages can significantly improve how students access and understand course content.

New to Canvas? Learn how to create a Canvas page.

The following tools are available in the Canvas Rich Content Editor. Learn how to use the Rich Content Editor menu bar.

Use Headings to Organize Content

Headings help students quickly scan a page and understand how information is organized. They also allow screen reader users to navigate between sections more easily.

When creating Canvas pages:

• Use heading styles in the Canvas editor
• Avoid using bold text alone to create headings
• Organize content into clear sections

Use Lists for Steps or Key Points

Lists make content easier to read and understand, especially when presenting steps or grouped information.

Use:

• Bulleted lists for related items
• Numbered lists for step-by-step instructions

Avoid manually creating lists with dashes or numbers, as this can make navigation more difficult for assistive technologies.

Use Descriptive Links

Links should clearly describe where they lead.

Instead of writing: Click here

Use: View the Canvas Assignment Instructions

Descriptive links help all students understand the purpose of the link and improve navigation for screen reader users.

Add Alternative Text for Images

If your Canvas page includes images, charts, or diagrams, add alternative text (alt text) so screen readers can describe the image.

Alt text should briefly explain the purpose or meaning of the image within the course content.

Use the Canvas Accessibility Checker

Canvas includes a built-in accessibility checker in the Rich Content Editor that can help identify common accessibility issues.

The checker can help detect issues such as:

• Missing alternative text for images
• Color contrast concerns
• Table formatting issues

Running the accessibility checker before publishing content can help identify and fix common accessibility barriers.