Why Accessible Images Matter
Images can make a course more engaging, illustrate complex ideas, and support visual learners. However, without proper alternative text (alt-text), images can create barriers for students who use screen readers or who cannot see the image clearly.
Alt-text provides a textual description of an image so that all students, regardless of ability, can access the same information. If an image is purely decorative, it should be marked as such so screen readers skip it, preventing confusion. Accessible use of images ensures that every student has the same opportunity to learn.
How to Use Images
When deciding how to include images, ask yourself: Why am I using this image, and what should students take away from it?
Remediating images in Canvas:
- Edit: the Canvas page, assignment, or announcement where the image is located.
- Select: the image you want to make accessible.
- Choose "Image Options": from the pop-up menu that appears.
- Add a Description:
- Informative Images: In the "Alt text" field, enter a short, descriptive sentence that explains the image's content and function.
- Decorative Images: If the image serves no educational purpose and is just for aesthetics, select the "Decorative Image" checkbox to tell the screen reader to skip it.
- Save: Select the "Update" button to apply the changes for the image.
- Finalize: Scroll to the bottom of the editor and select the "Save" button to save the Canvas page.
Please watch this short video to learn how to properly use images in your course.
Types of Image Use and How to Handle Them:
- Contextual images: Provide alt-text that explains the image in relation to the course content. Example: a mountain photo in a geography course might be described as “Mount Everest peak with snow-covered slopes.”
- Functional images: When an image acts as a button or link (e.g., “Start Here” icon), describe the action in the alt-text. Example: “Select this button to open the Start Here module.”
- Decorative images: If the image is only for visual appeal and not tied to learning outcomes, mark it as decorative so screen readers skip it.
General Tips for Alternative Text and Image Descriptions:
- Keep descriptions concise (ideally under 120 characters).
- Include any text shown in the image (unless it duplicates text already on the page).
- Never begin with “image of…” — instead, describe what it is (e.g., chart, diagram, headshot).
- For complex visuals (like maps, charts, or diagrams), provide a brief alt-text and a longer explanation on the page.
Need Help?
- Stop by our Virtual Support Drop-In Zoom Room, which is open Monday – Friday, 9-4.
- Book a time to meet with a team member through our Digital Learning Bookings page!
- Email us at its.digitallearning@unomaha.edu.