Creating an Accessible Online Environment

As an instructor, it is important for you to consider accessibility when creating materials for the online environment. Retrofitting is not a recommended practice, so the best time to implement strategies for accessibility is during the creation process.

The inherent issue concerning web accessibility is complexity. There are excellent resources available on the topic. The World Wide Web Consortium or W3C is the international standards organization for the World Wide Web. The Web Accessibility Initiative is the section of the W3C that is responsible for the strategies, guidelines, and resources to make the Web accessible to people with disabilities. However, as wonderful as these resources are, the information contained within the websites is daunting.

It is the intent of staff to provide faculty with basic information in the area of web accessibility. Best practices, resources, and "how to" descriptions are included under Documents and Presentations. For specific guidelines on creating an accessible course in Canvas, we recommend looking at K-State's Digital Accessibility in Canvas.

Online Testing

For assistance with using Canvas for exams, please reference the Canvas Instructor Guide.

Before a student is scheduled to take an online exam at the SAC Testing Center:

1. Confirm that the exam will be open at the time scheduled with the Testing Center.
2. Extend the time limit if extra time is an accommodation.
3. Confirm that the exam is available for the entirety of the exam time.

If you have testing questions or concerns, contact the Testing Center at tst@k-state.edu or 785-532-5317.

For any online issues, please contact the K-State IT department.