Enhancing Digital Accessibility: Using Accessibility Checkers and Canvas to Create Accessible Content

Session Description

Ensuring digital accessibility is an essential practice when creating content for all learning environments. This session explores how to use accessibility checkers in Word and PowerPoint to identify and resolve common accessibility issues. Participants will also learn how to use Canvas’s built-in accessibility checker and the Ally report to identify and address accessibility issues within a course. The session will cover how accessible content integrates with assistive technologies, such as screen readers and voice-to-text applications. Attendees will gain practical skills to enhance the accessibility of their course materials. Register for the session

About the Presenters

Dr. Jamie Thompson

Dr. Jamie L. Thompson currently serves as the Assistant Director of Teaching Excellence at Texas A&M University’s Center for Teaching Excellence. Dr. Thompson is a seasoned instructional designer with a strong commitment to shaping effective and engaging learning experiences.  She brings a wealth of experience in instructional design and curriculum development, coupled with a steadfast dedication to fostering impactful educational experiences. With a comprehensive background in education spanning both K-12 and higher education, she is committed to advancing learning outcomes across diverse educational contexts.

Carlos Perez, M.Ed.

As an Educational Consultant at the Center for Teaching Excellence, Carlos Perez designs and implements professional development related to Texas A&M University’s digital learning environment. He collaborates on projects focusing on user experience, course design, accessibility, and effective practices for the integration of technology across different modalities. He is highly interested in finding ways to close the gap between technical knowledge about the learning managing system and technological pedagogical content knowledge. Carlos Perez holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Houston and a Master of Education with a STEM education endorsement from Texas Tech University. Prior to joining Texas A&M, Carlos was a biology teacher for six years. During this time, he designed and implemented a variety of Biology curriculum. Additionally, he led the implementation of a biology program designated specifically for Emergent Bilinguals. Other experiences include presenting at different STEM conferences and facilitating professional development both for schools and for one of the largest school districts in Texas.

Justin Romack, M.S.

Justin Romack is an Assistant Director with Disability Resources at Texas A&M University, where he collaborates with faculty, staff and students to promote equitable access to the Aggie experience for disabled students. He works directly with the department’s assistive technology consultation and coordination, production of alternative and accessible course materials, and outreach and training on topics including digital accessibility, universal design for learning and classroom accommodations. Justin holds a master’s in educational administration from Texas A&M University and the Certified Professional in Accessibility Core Competencies from the International Association of Accessibility Professionals. He serves on the executive board for the Access Technology in Higher Education Network (ATHEN) and has previously served on the board of directors for the regional affiliate of the Association on Higher Education and Disability.

Session Registration