STEM Accessibility Resources

Due to the complex nature of the materials used, it can be particularly challenging to make STEM courses fully accessible. This guide provides resources for some of the most common challenges.

Getting Started with Making Your Materials Accessible

A great place to start is implementing the general accessibility standards on the less specialized course content. Our quick guide will help you get started with the process and provides detailed guidance for how to implement each accessibility standard for many of the different content formats you’re likely using.

Title II Compliance Quick Guide

Figures, Diagrams, Charts, and Graphs

Complex images — including figures, diagrams, charts, and graphs — play a critical role in conveying information in STEM courses, but they can present significant barriers to users with disabilities if not made accessible. This resource provides practical guidance for ensuring that complex images are perceivable and understandable by all users, including those who rely on screen readers, keyboard navigation, or other assistive technologies. This includes guidance for writing alt text and long descriptions as well as ensuring sufficient color contrast.

Guide to Accessible Complex Images

Handwritten Materials

Handwritten materials pose unique accessibility challenges because, when shared digitally, they are generally turned into a single image rather than text. This means that the content is impossible for someone using a screen reader to access and can't be digitally manipulated to enhance readability. It can be time-consuming to make those materials fully accessible, but this guide provides some tips for making the process faster and easier.

Guide to Accessible Handwritten Materials

Math Equations

It is essential to ensure that math equations are presented in a format that preserves not just reading order, but also mathematical order of operations. Otherwise, someone using a screen reader will likely end up with incorrect information when using complex formulas and equations. This guide provides best practices for ensuring accessibility of math equations in different programs, including making LaTeX accessible.

Guide to Accessible Math Equations

Need Individual Help?

Even with lots of guidance, you may still have questions about how to implement accessibility in your course. If you need any help, please contact the instructional designer assigned to your unit!

CTT Staff Directory

Additional Resources

If you have feedback on this resource or you need a resource for a specific situation that isn't covered here, please use this form to let us know!

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