What Is It
Alternative text (alt text) is a brief written description added to images, charts, graphs, and other visual elements in digital course materials. Alt text is read aloud by screen readers and displayed when images do not load, allowing students who cannot see the image to understand its purpose and content.
Why It Matters
For students who use screen readers—such as those who are blind, have low vision, or have certain learning or cognitive disabilities—alt text provides access to information that would otherwise be unavailable. Without it, images are often announced only as “image” or skipped entirely, creating gaps in understanding.
What to Do
- Add alternative text (alt text) for all meaningful images.
- Mark decorative images as decorative.
- Provide descriptions for complex visuals.
How-to Guides
- Alt Text in Microsoft for Mac - Guide | Video (01:39)
- Alt Text in Microsoft for PC - Guide | Video (01:22)
- Alt Text in Canvas - Guide | Video (01:36)
Resources
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