Apple Software: Accessibility Considerations for Course Materials

Because Apple software does not currently include built-in accessibility checkers, instructors may need to take additional steps to confirm that their materials meet accessibility expectations.

When reviewing documents created in Apple software, instructors should check that key accessibility elements have been applied correctly, such as:

• Headings and document structure are used to organize content
• Images, charts, and graphics include alternative text
• Tables are structured clearly and logically
• Slide titles and reading order are clear in presentations
• Color contrast allows text to be easily read

To help verify these elements, instructors may also use tools that include accessibility checking features. Possible approaches include:

• Exporting a document to Microsoft Word and running the Accessibility Checker
• Exporting a document or presentation to PDF and reviewing accessibility using Adobe Acrobat accessibility tools

These steps can help confirm that accessibility features applied in Apple software function properly before materials are shared with students.

Apple software allows users to incorporate several accessibility features when creating documents or presentations. However, these applications do not currently provide automated accessibility checking tools comparable to those available in some other document and presentation platforms.

Without an accessibility checker, instructors must manually review their materials for potential accessibility issues. This makes it more difficult to identify problems such as:

• Missing alternative text for images or charts
• Improper or inconsistent heading structure
• Reading order issues in presentations
• Table accessibility problems
• Color contrast concerns

Because these checks cannot be automatically performed within Apple software, verifying accessibility may require additional steps.

To ensure course materials meet accessibility standards as efficiently as possible, UB strongly encourages the use of centrally supported tools that include built-in accessibility checking features.

Microsoft Office applications such as Word, PowerPoint, and Excel, along with Adobe Acrobat, provide accessibility checkers that help identify and resolve common accessibility issues before materials are distributed to students.

Because of these built-in tools and their campus-wide support, Microsoft Office products are the recommended platform for preparing and verifying accessible course materials at UB.

While Apple software can still be used to create course materials, it does not currently provide comparable accessibility verification capabilities. As a result, confirming accessibility when using these tools may require additional steps or the use of other software.

For this reason, instructors are encouraged to use Microsoft Office products whenever possible when preparing course documents and presentations, particularly when accessibility verification is required.

If you use Apple software to create course materials, the following practices can help improve accessibility:

• Use built-in heading styles to organize and structure documents clearly
• Add alternative text descriptions to images, charts, and graphics
• Include clear slide titles in presentations
• Ensure sufficient color contrast between text and background
• Avoid relying solely on color to convey meaning
• Use simple layouts and readable fonts

Apple provides guidance on accessibility features within its applications:

CATT provides resources and guidance to help instructors create accessible digital course materials.

If you need assistance with accessibility best practices, accessibility checking tools, or preparing course materials, please visit UB’s accessibility resources or contact the accessibility support team.

For additional training, register for an upcoming CATT virtual session on creating accessible content in UB Learns, Word, PowerPoint, or PDF.  For individual support, reach out to your Unit Accessibility Liaison or submit a ticket through CATT.