Creating accessible course materials enhances the learning experience for all students at MSU. The following resources and tutorials provide best practices for ensuring that course content is usable to the greatest extent possible by all individuals.
Spartan Ally is a robust tool integrated with D2L that automatically scans course content for common accessibility issues and provides step-by-step guidance on fixing them. This guide for Spartan Ally explores the basics of using the tool.
When information is to be presented electronically, the first choice is to use a web page. The next-best option is the native document type—the default file type that the program creates, such as a .docx file in Word. Importantly, the native documents must be designed accessibly. Reference the Document Accessibility section of this website for guidance on a variety of document types.
Guidance on sourcing digital content is available to ensure that digital course materials meet MSU’s standards for digital accessibility while reducing learning and cost barriers to students with disabilities.
After copying an existing D2L course, plan to review all the materials and documents included in the course. Materials that are no longer in use should be removed. Removing irrelevant materials after copying a course also creates a more accurate Spartan Ally course accessibility report.
MSU IT provides instructional technology consultation services leveraging MSU technology resources to meet the needs of students and faculty in-person and online. Visit the Technology at MSU website to learn more and view upcoming training opportunities. Additionally, the IT&D MediaSpace channel of over 100 videos covers topics like providing an accessible and inclusive environment for learning, crafting accessible course content, designing a course at MSU, and more.
Self-enroll in this D2L course developed by the Resource Center for Persons with Disabilities (RCPD). The course focuses on disability education, RCPD accommodations, and accessible classroom best practices.
MSU employees can request access to Deque University online self-paced trainings at no cost. Deque's comprehensive web and digital accessibility curriculum covers the full range of topics, with classes designed for a variety of professionals.
Instructors can self-enroll in this D2L course launched in 2025 by the MSU IT Educational Technology Team. As of March 2025, the first of six modules is available. All self-paced modules are expected to be available by fall 2025. Participants can earn micro-credentials for each module, and a certificate upon completing all six modules. This program is open to faculty, staff, and students through the Digital Accessibility for Educators self-enrollment page.