Ensuring equitable access to learning for all students is essential in today’s diverse K-12 classrooms. Accessibility encompasses both instructional design and the tools and resources provided to students, aiming to meet the varied learning needs of all learners.
From the teacher’s perspective, accessible instructional design is foundational to creating an inclusive
learning environment. At the Tier 1 level, Universal Design for Learning (UDL) provides a
framework that supports all students by offering multiple means of engagement, representation, and
action & expression. This approach allows teachers to design lessons that are flexible and adaptable,
addressing the unique strengths and challenges of each student. Core concepts of accessible design
include:
● Perceivable: Ensuring content is accessible to all students. This can be achieved by adding
alternative text (alt text) for images, providing captions and transcripts for videos, ensuring
strong color contrast between text and background, and organizing content using headings and
lists for clarity. These practices help students with sensory impairments, such as those who are
deaf or blind, engage with the material.
● Operable: Making sure that content is easy to interact with. This involves using accessible
navigation, such as keyboard shortcuts and clear instructions, to ensure students can engage with
content regardless of physical ability.
● Understandable: Ensuring content is clear and easy to comprehend. This includes using plain
language, offering support materials such as glossaries, and providing opportunities for feedback
and clarification.
While Tier 1 focuses on designing inclusive learning experiences for all students, collaboration with Special Education (SPED) is essential for addressing more specific needs in Tiers 2 and 3. In these tiers, teachers, T&L, and SPED staff can work together to provide more individualized supports and interventions for students who require additional assistance beyond the general classroom instruction.
From the student’s perspective, accessibility involves tools and resources that allow them to fully engage with learning materials. This can include assistive technologies such as screen readers, voice-to-text software, and adaptive devices, as well as digital platforms that offer customizable features like text resizing, captions, and interactive elements. These tools help ensure that students can access content in ways that meet their unique needs, whether they have physical, sensory, or cognitive challenges.
Throughout the next year, this framework will guide our efforts to continually evaluate and improve both instructional design and the tools available to students, ensuring an accessible and inclusive learning environment for all.