Canvas and Accessibility
Joshua Hori
Description
In this session, we’ll dive into the built-in Canvas Accessibility Checker by walking through the 27 potential content issues I tested, from heading hierarchy and image alt text to color contrast and link labels. You’ll see exactly which issues the checker catches, where it falls short, and learn the pros and cons of relying on an automated tool. We’ll then cover practical strategies, both automated and manual, to ensure your course materials meet WCAG 2.1 AA standards. By the end, you’ll know how to leverage Canvas’s checker effectively and apply simple best practices to guarantee truly accessible content for every learner.
Link to the video [video.ucdavis.edu]
Access the presentation slides (Powerpoint)
About the Presenter
Joshua Hori is the Accessible Technology Coordinator at UC Davis, bringing nearly twenty years of dedicated experience to the university’s commitment to inclusive learning. Early in his career, spanning the majority of those years at the Student Disability Center, he focused on making core course materials accessible for students with a wide range of needs. Over time, his work has grown to include the development of foreign-language braille resources, a fully tactile campus map, and accessible STEM materials that democratize scientific learning. He also led the creation of the LibreText Accessibility Checker, a tool that empowers faculty to identify and resolve accessibility issues before publishing.
In his role, Joshua collaborates closely with both local and UC-systemwide accessibility committees, lending his expertise to policy development, training initiatives, and compliance strategies. His influence extends to regional and national organizations, where he shares best practices and explores emerging solutions. Always looking toward the future, he integrates AI-driven accommodations and is researching blockchain-based identity projects that improve and expand accessibility.
Joshua believes that true accessibility flourishes when instructors have clear guidance, practical tools, and responsive support. By equipping educators with the resources they need, he ensures that accommodations become a seamless part of course design rather than an afterthought, creating learning environments where every student can engage, participate, and succeed.
