Creating Accessible Digital Content
RIC is building the tools, services, and support you need to make your documents, web pages, videos, and social media posts accessible without feeling overwhelmed. Get started today!
Support, Training & Continuous Improvement for Accessibility
Accessibility is an ongoing commitment, and RIC is building the support systems, training opportunities, and governance structures needed to help faculty and staff succeed. Get connected with people, tools, and processes that make accessibility manageable and sustainable across campus...
How to Get Help
RIC provides multiple support channels to help you remediate content, caption videos, improve course materials, and address accessibility barriers:
- Submit a Request or Question (general accessibility question or request)
- Request Captioning & Transcription Support
- How to Get Assistance with our.ric.edu Documents and SharePoint Set Up
- View Our Web Accessibility Checklist and Support
- Request a Course Accessibility Review
Please Note: From an operational and workforce perspective, this will be a phased implementation and remediation and support requests will be prioritized accordingly.
Testing & Evaluation Basics
RIC uses a combination of automated and manual testing to evaluate accessibility across courses, documents, and web content. These tools help identify issues early and guide improvements over time.
Automated Tools Available
- Blackboard Ally automatically scans course files and suggests fixes
- Microsoft Accessibility Checker is built into Word, PowerPoint, and Excel
- WAVE checks webpages for accessibility issues
- Axe Extension is a browser extension for deeper testing
- WebAIM Color Contrast Checker lets you quickly verify readability
Manual Checks
- keyboard-only navigation (try navigating a page with no mouse, only use your keyboard's tab key)
- screen reader checks (most computers' system settings allow for screen reader testing)
- reviewing headings and structure
- checking color contrast and readability
- verifying captions and transcripts
Ongoing Governance & Support
Accessibility at RIC is supported by a growing governance structure designed to ensure long-term consistency, accountability, and continuous improvement. As we work to solidify roles and responsibilities across campus, just reach out and we'll route your inquiry to the right team.
"We're building a sustainable, campus-wide accessibility ecosystem that supports faculty, staff, and students – not a one-time compliance effort."
Current Support Systems for Faculty and Staff
Accessibility is a shared responsibility. You’re not expected to do it alone. RIC is committed to providing the tools, training, and support you need to create accessible, inclusive digital experiences for all members of our community. Take a look at creating accessible digital content and accessible courses, platforms & technology. If you ever feel stuck, unsure, or overwhelmed, reach out. We’re here to help.
Accessible Courses, Platforms & Technology
View instructions and tools for faculty on creating accessible course materials. Understand accessibility across course components: within the LMS, course design, instructional materials, and the digital tools used across campus. You can also Request a Blackboard Consultation.
