Inclusive design describes methodologies to create materials that understand and enable people of as many backgrounds and abilities as possible. At its core, inclusive design is about empathizing with users and adapting to the various needs of users.

Accessibility is focused on ensuring that interfaces and technology can be used by people with disabilities (including auditory, cognitive, physical, and visual disabilities). Accessibility has a narrower scope than inclusive design in that it is focused on specific accommodations.

While accessibility is part of inclusive design, inclusive design is based around fulfilling as many user needs as possible. Inclusive design may address age, culture, economic situation, education, gender, geographic location, language, and race in addition to accessibility.

 

While preparing your course materials, here are some best practices tips to consider:

Accessible Design: Starting Practices

Accessible Design: Images and Graphics

Accessible Design: Audio and Video

Accessible Design: Text

Office of Information Technology

Instructional Technology and Media Services (ITMS)

Address Muhlenberg College Office of Information Technology 2400 Chew Street Allentown, PA 18104