5.1. What Is The EdX Accessibility Best Practices Guidance Based On?ΒΆ

EdX measures and evaluates accessibility using the World Wide Web Consortium’s Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.0 (Dec. 11, 2008). All features that are merged into edX repositories are expected to conform to Level AA of this specification and satisfy the requirements outlined in the edX Website Accessibility Policy.

In addition, our guidance is based on principles of universal design (usable by all, to the greatest extent possible, without the need for adaptation or specialized design). Course teams who build courses based on these principles create an inclusive experience that considers the diverse set of learning styles and needs of all learners, including learners with disabilities, learners whose native language is not English, learners with technical issues such as low bandwidth internet or no access to audio.

For the purposes of this guidance, we assume that end users are equipped with the appropriate adaptive technology and compatible software. To supplement the accessibility you can achieve within the Open edX platform, we recommend that you engage the resources available at your institution to support learners with disabilities. Most institutions offer disability support services and information technology resources that provide accessibility advice and support. These professionals are trained in making disability accommodation decisions and can advise you on what accommodations may be appropriate in light of the goals of the course and the instructional methodologies employed.

For more information, see the following topics.