Guide to Accessible Academic Content

Whether you're developing course materials, adding content to Canvas, or building tests and quizzes, creating accessible academic content is a key part of supporting Harvard's Digital Accessibility Policy and providing an equitable experience for all students, especially those with disabilities.

We've created this guide to get you started with creating academic content that is accessible and inclusive.

pdf icon.Download a printable version of the Guide to Accessible Academic Content (PDF)

Creating Accessible Content

icon of pen writing text. Essentials for Content Creators

Guidelines and resources to make your content accessible.

Explore resources for Content Creators

Documents 

Guidance on creating accessible Microsoft Word and PowerPoint documents, as well as Google Docs and Slides.

Browse document resources

Headphones icon.Multimedia 

Explore accessibility practices for captions, transcripts, audio description, and social media.

Learn more about multimedia accessibility

Icon of a bar chart.Data Visualizations, Charts, and Graphs

Make sure data visualizations are accessible to everyone by being mindful of color, labels, descriptions, and design.

Learn what makes charts and graphs accessible

Using Canvas

Training and Office Hours 

Instructor-led Trainings

Digital Accessibility Services offers live instructor-led trainings for the Harvard community on topics such as:

  • Digital Accessibility for Content Creators
  • Web Accessibility in HTML and CSS
  • Testing for Digital Accessibility
  • Intro to Digital Accessibility and Harvard's Policies
  • IT Academy: Digital Accessibility Foundations
  • Creating Accessible Documents

Browse Upcoming Accessibility Trainings

Self-paced Training

Browse on-demand training courses on accessibility topics such as content, documents, development, and testing.

Browse Self-Paced Training Courses

DAS Office Hours

Want to check your content accessibility with Digital Accessibility Services (DAS)? Stop by one of our upcoming Office Hours!

We hold open office hours in a Zoom meeting room on the 2nd and 4th Fridays of each month from 10am-12pm.

Upcoming DAS Office Hours

Get Support 

Digital Accessibility Services (DAS)

DAS supports the Harvard community in making sure that everyone has the opportunity to access the university’s knowledge, ideas, and resources. DAS offers training, consultation, and resources on accessibility for content creators and developers.

Digital Accessibility Liaisons (DAL)

The network of DALs coordinates local efforts, facilitates training, and monitors progress. At least one DAL has been appointed to represent each school and administrative unit.

Local Student Disability Coordinators (LDC)

Students who wish to request accommodations should contact their school's Local Student Disability Coordinator (LDC) to initiate the reasonable accommodation exploration process.