UCSF is implementing accessibility requirements for digital learning content in alignment with federal regulations.
Web content and mobile applications must meet Web Content Accessibly Guidelines (WCAG) standards. This includes training hosted in a Learning Management System (LMS) such as the UC Learning Center and Nursing Connect.
Standards apply to all digital learning materials such as:
- PDFs, PowerPoint slide decks and other documents
- Videos and audio tracks
- eLearning courses
Accessibility must be built into content from the start, not added later.
Impact on UCSF eLearning
The UCSF Learning & Organization Development department manages nearly 1,000 eLearning assets that must be reviewed and remediated for compliance. Because of this:
- Accessibility work is now part of all instructional design projects
- Development timelines may increase due to design, testing, and remediation
- Priority will be given to high-use and public-facing content
Expectations for Course Creators
All UCSF staff, departments, and external vendors who create learning content are expected to:
- Follow WCAG standards (current guidance: 2.1 Level AA)
- Use the UCSF/UC eLearning Accessibility Checklist
- Test content for accessibility before launch
This does apply if you use your own course authoring tools (e.g., Articulate 360).
Accessibility in eLearning Development
Creating accessible eLearning requires additional effort but ensures equitable access for all learners. This includes:
- Designing for keyboard navigation
- Providing captions, transcripts, and alt text
- Using clear structure and sufficient color contrast
- Testing with assistive technologies
Note: AI tools can support development, but accessibility still requires manual review and validation.
Platform Responsibility
UCSF learning platforms (e.g., Cornerstone, SumTotal) support accessibility standards.
However:
Content owners are responsible for ensuring their materials are accessible.
Resources
- Accessible PDFs - Microlearning Path | UCSF Learning & Organization Development
How to fix commonly flagged document accessibility barriers using Adobe Acrobat or InDesign, Microsoft Word or PowerPoint
Guidelines | Testing and checking tools | Standards | Office Hours | Communities of Practice - Digital Accessibility Compliance Project | UCSF IT
Learn how to make your content compliant | Live Help and Training | Resources and FAQs - Electronic Accessibility for Content Providers | UC Office of the President
Quick reference guidelines | Image descriptions | Links language | Create accessible PDFs | Siteimprove, Tableau, other Tips - Digital Accessibility: The eDeveloper’s Toolkit
An eCourse for Instructional Designers and eDevelopers of eCourses who create digital learning modules using course authoring tools such as Articulate Rise 360 and Articulate Storyline 360, to publish SCORM, xAPI, HTML5, MP4/Video, or PDF/PowerPoint products to learning management systems and similar training platforms - Digital Accessiblity Training | UCSF IT
Self-paced learning | Office Hours | Communities of Practice | Procurement - Software Training | UCSF Learning & Organization Development
UCSF tech training | Recommended micro-learning for UCSF | eLearning libraries such as LinkedIn Learning - UCOP eCourse Accessibility Checklist