Why Lists Matter
Using bulleted and numbered lists is a simple way to make course content clearer and more accessible. Lists break information into smaller, consistent pieces that are easy for students to scan and follow. They can make directions, expectations, and resources more digestible, reducing overload and confusion.
For students who use screen readers, properly formatted lists provide structure and navigation cues. Without them, a set of items may sound like one long block of text, making it harder to understand the sequence or importance of each element.
How to Use Lists
The key to accessibility is using Canvas’s built-in list tool rather than typing your own bullets or numbers. This ensures that assistive technologies recognize the items as part of a list.
Creating a new list:
- Open the Rich Content Editor: Navigate to the page, assignment, or announcement where you want to add content.
- Place your cursor: Position the cursor where you want the list to begin.
- Select a list type: Select the Bulleted List button on the toolbar and choose the type of list you’d like to make (e.g., bullets, numbers, letters, etc.)
- Start typing: Enter your first list item and press Enter to automatically create the next item.
Please watch this short video to learn how to properly use lists in your course.
General Tips for Creating Lists
- Always use Canvas’s list tool. Do not create your own bullets or numbers with dashes, asterisks, or keyboard symbols.
- Introduce the list. Add a short phrase or sentence before the list so students know what the items represent.
- Be consistent. Use lists regularly in similar places (e.g., module objectives, assignment directions) so students know what to expect.
- Avoid overload. Break long lists into smaller chunks, or group related items with sub-lists.
- Check accessibility. Use the Canvas Accessibility Checker or Panorama to confirm your lists are properly formatted.
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.