In today’s digital world, accessibility in eLearning isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s a necessity. It’s about making sure everyone—regardless of their abilities—can access and benefit from learning materials. Yet, too often, accessibility is treated as an afterthought. For organisations aiming to embrace Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI), making eLearning accessible is crucial.

Why Accessibility Matters: An EDI Perspective

Accessibility isn’t just about compliance; it’s about creating a fair and inclusive environment where all learners can thrive. When we make eLearning content accessible, we open doors for individuals with disabilities, enabling them to participate fully in the learning experience. In the UK, 22% of the population reports having a disability (ONS, 2021). That’s more than 14 million people. And with 70% of disabilities being non-visible (Disability Rights UK), it’s likely that many learners will need some form of accessibility support during their training journey.

Moreover, research from Scope suggests that 1 in 5 people in the UK have a disability, affecting their interactions with digital content. Ignoring this in eLearning means potentially excluding a large portion of your audience. For organisations, this is not just a matter of ethics; it’s a business imperative. Accessible training helps to build a more engaged and diverse workforce, which has been linked to improved productivity and innovation (McKinsey, 2020).

The Legal Angle: Staying on the Right Side of the Law

In the UK, failing to provide accessible eLearning content can also put organisations at risk of legal repercussions. The Equality Act 2010 requires organisations to make "reasonable adjustments" for disabled individuals, including in their digital offerings. Non-compliance can result in fines and damage to reputation. However, when done right, accessible eLearning can demonstrate a commitment to inclusivity and support the values of equity and diversity that many organisations strive to embody.

Making eLearning Accessible: Key Statistics to Consider

48% of disabled people in the UK feel excluded from the digital world due to inaccessible websites and content (Scope, 2022). This highlights the importance of ensuring that digital learning solutions are built with accessibility in mind.

86% of organisations that have made accessibility improvements report positive feedback from employees (CIPD, 2023). This demonstrates that inclusive eLearning isn’t just a compliance measure but can significantly enhance learner satisfaction.

The UK’s Disability Employment Gap stands at 28.9% (DWP, 2022), underlining the importance of accessible training in creating employment opportunities for disabled individuals.

How to Make Your eLearning Courses Accessible

Creating accessible eLearning content doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By following some best practices, you can make sure your courses are inclusive and user-friendly for all. Here are five practical tips, aligned with WCAG 2.1 AA guidelines:

1. Use Alt Text for Images

Ensure that all images have descriptive alt text. This allows screen reader users to understand the content of images. Avoid generic phrases like "image of..." and instead describe the content or purpose of the image.

2. Provide Captions and Transcripts for Video and Audio

Not everyone can hear audio content, so providing captions or transcripts ensures that learners with hearing impairments can access the information. This is a requirement under WCAG 2.1 AA and makes your content more user-friendly for all.

3. Ensure Keyboard Navigation

Your eLearning platform should be fully operable using a keyboard. This benefits users with motor disabilities who may not be able to use a mouse. Test your course to ensure learners can access every part of it without using a mouse.

4. Use High Colour Contrast

Use a high-contrast colour scheme for text and backgrounds to aid learners with visual impairments. WCAG 2.1 AA recommends a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for regular text. This ensures that all learners can read your content comfortably.

5. Write in Plain Language

Use simple and concise language to ensure your content is easy to understand. Avoid jargon and complicated phrases that could make the material harder to follow for those with cognitive disabilities. Aim for a reading level that most of your audience can easily comprehend.

Take the Next Step Towards Inclusive Learning

Accessibility is a continuous journey, but it’s one worth taking. By making your eLearning courses accessible, you’re not only meeting legal obligations but also fostering a more inclusive and productive learning environment. And the benefits extend beyond your learners—improving accessibility can boost your organisation’s reputation, engagement, and performance.

If you want to stay updated with the latest trends in accessible eLearning and other innovative solutions, follow Popcorn Learning Agency on LinkedIn. We regularly share insights, tips, and case studies to help organisations like yours build impactful, inclusive learning experiences. Let’s work together to make learning accessible for everyone!