Alternative text helps students understand the purpose of an image when they cannot see it. For decorative images that do not convey instructional information, Canvas provides an option to mark them as decorative.
Getting started:
- Open the Canvas page, assignment, announcement, or other item containing the image.
- Select the image and open its image settings.
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Add a brief description that explains the image’s instructional purpose, not every visual detail.
- If the image is purely decorative, mark it as decorative when that option is available.
- Save your changes and review the content from the student’s perspective.
A good place to start: Choose one image students will use this week and review or update its alternative text.
For more detailed information about alt text and other accessibility best practices, visit the Accessibility at Bloustein Canvas resource site. You can self-enroll here:
Remember, accessibility improvements do not need to happen all at once. Small, manageable steps taken throughout the semester can make a meaningful difference for students.
Rutgers offers extensive accessibility resources, guidance, and support, so you do not have to tackle accessibility on your own.