Introduction to the Course

Welcome to Accessible Web Development! This course is designed to provide developers with the technical knowledge and practical skills required to create accessible web applications that comply with modern accessibility standards. Whether you’re new to accessible development or looking to enhance your expertise, this course will empower you to build inclusive digital experiences for users of all abilities.

What This Course Covers

This course will cover essential techniques and guidelines to ensure your web applications are accessible to everyone. Core topics include:
  • Document Structure: Understanding the importance of semantic HTML and proper heading hierarchy for assistive technologies.
  • CSS for Accessibility: Leveraging CSS effectively while avoiding visual traps that could create barriers for users with disabilities.
  • Color and Contrast: Ensuring your designs meet the necessary contrast ratios for users with visual impairments.
  • Forms and User Input: Building accessible forms that are operable with both keyboard and assistive technology.
  • Keyboard Accessibility: Ensuring your website is fully navigable with a keyboard, critical for users with motor disabilities.
  • Frames and Iframes: Making embedded content accessible and usable across all devices.
  • Media: Techniques for making videos and audio accessible through captions, transcripts, and audio descriptions.
  • Navigation: Creating accessible navigation structures to help users quickly find content on your website.
  • Tables and Grids: Best practices for designing accessible data tables and grid layouts.
  • WAI-ARIA: Applying ARIA roles, states, and properties to improve accessibility for dynamic content.

How Lessons Are Organized

Each module begins with a clear set of learning objectives. You will first be introduced to the theoretical aspects of accessibility for that type of content, followed by practical discussion and code samples, where appropriate. Each module is designed to build upon the previous one, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of accessible web development from both a technical and user-focused perspective.

Getting the Most Out of the Course

To maximize your learning experience, we recommend:
  • Active Participation: Engage with coding exercises and complete all assigned tasks. These hands-on opportunities will solidify your understanding of core concepts.
  • Explore Further: Make use of additional readings and external resources, including W3C’s WAI-ARIA documentation, WCAG guidelines, and other industry-standard references.
  • Iterative Practice: Continuously apply the principles and techniques to your personal or professional web development projects. Accessibility is an ongoing process, and real-world practice is key.
By the end of this course, you will be equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to design, develop, and test accessible web applications that meet legal standards and improve the user experience for people of all abilities.