Course Content
Accessible by Design: Inclusive Online Learning Experiences

Lesson 5: Tools and Technology

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Overview

In this lesson, you’ll explore the tools and technologies that support accessible and inclusive online learning. From accessibility testing to UDL implementation, you’ll learn how to evaluate and select digital tools (including course platforms) that align with both technical requirements and learner needs. You’ll also assess the cost-benefit impact of these tools to help make strategic decisions for your course.

Objectives

By the end of this lesson, you will be able to:

  • Identify key accessibility testing tools and their use cases.
  • Select tools that support UDL-aligned course design.
  • Evaluate LMS platforms for accessibility and usability features.
  • Consider the cost and value of tools for long-term impact.
  • Integrate testing and technology into your course development workflow.

Exercise

Before moving on, take a moment to reflect on what you’ve just learned. These questions are designed to help you connect the lesson content to your own course and your future learners.

You can jot down your answers, share your thoughts in the comments, or just reflect quietly. These small reflections will help you shape your learner persona at the end of the module.

  1. Who are your potential learners and what specific needs might they have?
  2. Identify 2-3 characteristics that will influence how you design your course.

Lesson Checklist

  1. Watch the video lesson
  2. Review the resources
  3. Work on the exercise

Resources

Lesson Slides
IDEO Human-Centered Design Tooklit