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The use of accessible materials and assistive and accessible technologies and tools strengthens opportunities for every learner to experience access, participation, and progress in the learning process. Increasingly accessible technologies are built into the devices many learners already own and use.
Think about the last time you struggled with a poorly designed system: maybe you pushed on a door clearly labeled “pull” or got lost in a maze-like website that made finding simple information feel impossible. These everyday obstacles highlight how design can either support or hinder our ability to navigate the world.
Now, imagine encountering these barriers constantly, with no way to work around them. For people with disabilities, many environments, tools, and technologies create daily challenges that exclude rather than include. Accessible design isn’t just about compliance—it’s about creating spaces, products, and experiences that work for everyone.
The world is poorly designed in many ways
One manifestation of dyslexia
For many students, especially those with disabilities, the reality of education is endlessly frustrating. They are assigned textbooks they can’t read, attend lectures they can’t hear, and participate in labs they can’t navigate.
The use of accessible materials and accessibility technologies doesn't just provide value to those with disabilities, but helps all students learn:
Closed captioning on subtitles are helpful when trying to understand a video in a busy coffee shop
Speech-to-text and text-to-speech are useful when driving or multi-tasking
Alternate keyboard commands, like shift and tab, improve efficiency
When we design for inclusivity, we create better experiences for all.
Be screen-reader friendly
Write alt text, use structured headings, and ensure resources are navigable by keyboard.
Provide captions and transcripts for videos
These support students who are Deaf or hard of hearing, non-native speakers, and those in noisy or quiet environments.
Support executive functioning
Provide schedules, reminders, templates, and models.
Check in and communicate
Make sure your students know you are adaptable, accommodating, and open to suggestions to make learning more accessible.
AEM is your accessibility partner
The National Center on Accessible Educational Materials for Learning at CAST provides technical assistance, coaching, and resources to increase the availability and use of accessible educational materials and technologies for learners with disabilities.
When designing a lesson, ask yourself the following questions:
Do my images have descriptive alt text?
Am I following my students’ 504/IEP accommodations?
Are learners allowed to choose what technology to use?
Will students feel comfortable telling me if they can’t access the materials?
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