Access-First Course Design Audit

Why Accessibility Audits Matter

Accessibility isn’t a checklist. It’s an ethic.

When we audit our course designs through the lens of access, we’re not just fixing contrast ratios or adding captions — we’re asking: Who is this course built for? And who is it quietly leaving out?

An access-first audit centers the experiences of learners who are most often excluded — and creates a stronger, more adaptable learning environment for everyone.

Understanding the Frameworks

Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG)

Developed by the W3C, WCAG offers the foundational technical standards for making web-based content more accessible. Its principles:

Perceivable – Information must be visible or audible in multiple ways.
Operable – All users must be able to navigate and interact.
Understandable – Information and interface must be clear and predictable.
Robust – Content must work with assistive technologies and different devices.

Read the full WCAG overview →

Universal Design for Learning (UDL)

UDL goes beyond compliance. It’s about designing from the margins — creating flexible environments that offer multiple pathways for learners to engage, understand, and express.

Engagement – Provide varied ways to connect with content and stay motivated.
Representation – Present information in multiple formats (text, audio, visuals, etc.).
Action & Expression – Offer multiple ways to demonstrate understanding.

Explore the UDL Guidelines →

Steps for Conducting an Access-First Audit

1. Review Course Materials

Check for plain language, consistent voice, and minimized jargon.
Ensure all video/audio content includes accurate captions and transcripts.
Use structured documents with headers, alt text, and semantic markup.

Use consistent layouts across modules and pages.
Verify that every interaction is accessible by keyboard alone.
Provide clear breadcrumbs or visual orientation cues.

3. Assess Visual Design

Use sufficient color contrast between background and text.
Choose legible font families and sizes.
Ensure all images, charts, and icons have meaningful alt text.

4. Test with Assistive Technologies

Use screen readers like NVDA or JAWS to audit flow and hierarchy.
Try navigating the course using only voice (Dragon, Siri) or tab keys.
Check content responsiveness and adaptability across device types.

5. Gather and Act on Feedback

Survey learners about barriers or confusion points.
Host feedback sessions with disabled learners and access experts.
Create an “access log” to track and prioritize iterative fixes.

Tools and Resources

In Closing

This work isn’t about perfection — it’s about responsiveness.

Designing for access means asking better questions, listening deeply, and making room for more kinds of learners to feel seen, supported, and successful. And that’s not just good pedagogy. That’s justice.

Need support running an accessibility audit or building an access-first course? Reach out →