Flipping the Script on Accessibility: Engaging, Inclusive Course Design That Works

Scheduled at 4:15 pm in Colorado I-J on Wednesday, November 19.

Speaker(s)

• Jacoba Behunin, Sales Director, West, Cidi Labs, LLC

Session Details

• Length of Session: 1-hr
• Format: Lecture
• Expertise Level: Beginner
• Type of session: General Conference

Summary

Think accessibility means boring, time-consuming, or limiting design? Think again. Accessible course design isn’t just about checking compliance boxes—it’s about creating better learning experiences for *everyone*. In this session, Cidi Labs flips the script on accessibility by tackling common myths and showing how inclusive design can actually elevate your Canvas courses.

Abstract

Think accessibility means boring, time-consuming, or limiting design? Think again. Accessible course design isn’t just about checking compliance boxes—it’s about creating better learning experiences for *everyone*. In this session, Cidi Labs flips the script on accessibility by tackling common myths and showing how inclusive design can actually elevate your Canvas courses.

We’ll explore research-backed strategies that make courses clearer, more effective, and more engaging—without sacrificing interactivity or visual appeal. You'll see how accessible design can enhance creativity, not restrict it.

We’ll bust these common myths:

Myth 1: Accessibility is only for students with disabilities. Reality: It benefits all learners by improving clarity, navigation, and engagement Myth 2: Accessible courses are dull and static. Reality: Thoughtful interactivity can increase both accessibility and engagement. Myth 3: Accessibility means sacrificing good design. Reality: It often results in cleaner, more polished courses. Myth 4: Accessibility takes too much time or expertise. Reality: Cidi Labs tools make it intuitive and efficient.

You’ll leave this session:

Empowered with practical strategies for building accessible, interactive Canvas content Equipped with examples, layouts, and research-backed tips you can apply immediately Excited to scale inclusive, effective learning experiences at your institution

Learn how DesignPLUS and UDOIT Advantage support accessibility best practices and streamline the course design process—whether you’re new to accessibility or ready to take your designs to the next level.

Join us to reimagine what accessible course design can be: intuitive, inclusive, and inspiring.

Keypoints

1. Empowered to design accessible, engaging courses with practical strategies using tools like DesignPLUS.
2. Equipped with research-based course design ideas and tools to clarify accessibility in Canvas.
3. Ready to build inclusive, impactful courses using practical tips, layouts, and resources for accessibility.

Disability Areas

All Areas

Topic Areas

Accessible Course Design, Alternate Format, Uncategorized

Speaker Bio(s)

Jacoba Behunin

Since 2018, Jacoba Behunin has worked with colleges and universities across higher education to advance accessibility and student success through Cidi Labs’ suite of tools for Canvas. She partners with faculty and administrators to improve course design, streamline accessibility workflows, and promote “accessibility by design” as a foundation for equitable learning.