Student Accessibility: Screenreaders and SpeedGrader

kschneider25

An instructor raised an excellent question during accessibility training: Are there any components within the SpeedGrader tools that are accessible, or particularly more accessible, when giving feedback on student assignments or submissions?

Jeff_F

Hello @kschneider25 - I accessed the Ignite AI Agent and asked about accessibility of the student grades view. Below is my prompt and the response. I hoipe this is useful! ~ Jeff
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Let's talk about accessibility - specifically, accessibility for students in their Grades page view. Can you please share what features are considered accessible on this page? For example, the rubric, comments, media upload, and document markup.

Hello! I'd be happy to discuss accessibility features for students in their Grades page view on Canvas.

Canvas LMS has several accessibility features built into the Grades page to ensure all students can access and interact with their assessment information effectively. Here's what you should know about accessibility in the student Grades view:

Grades Page Accessibility Features:

1. Rubrics:
   • Screen reader compatible with proper heading structure
   • Keyboard navigable cells and criteria
   • High contrast options for visibility
   • Text descriptions alongside visual elements
2. Comments:
   • Text-based feedback is screen reader accessible
   • Threaded comments maintain logical reading order
   • Comment notifications available through multiple channels (email, Canvas notifications)
3. Media Upload/Feedback:
   • Option for closed captioning on video feedback
   • Audio feedback with text alternatives
   • Multiple formats supported for different learning preferences
4. Document Markup:
   • Text annotations that can be read by screen readers
   • Color-coded feedback with text alternatives
   • Keyboard accessible annotation tools
5. General Grades Page Accessibility:
   • Keyboard navigation throughout the interface
   • Responsive design that works with zoom features
   • Compatible with common assistive technologies
   • Clear heading structure for screen reader navigation
   • Alternative text for icons and visual elements

Canvas continuously works to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards to ensure students with disabilities can effectively access their grades and feedback.

Is there a specific aspect of Grades page accessibility you'd like me to elaborate on further?