IDEAL: Inclusive Design for Engagement and Accessibility in Learning

Course Overview

Course Facilitators

• Lindsey Morris, Learning Experience Designer, CPACC
• Aleithia Stephens, Manager of Instructional Support

Steps to Completion

1. Apply to the program – priority acceptance will be granted to fifteen full-time faculty members, with any remaining spots available for part-time faculty.
2. Complete the required readings, videos, and assessments in the five modules.
3. Complete five-week-long modules that include a 1-hour online synchronous discussion. The synchronous session attendance is required to be considered for acceptance into the program. These meetings will be held via Zoom on Tuesdays from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. in Fall 2025.

Live Session Schedule

Who can participate?

The IDEAL program is open to all faculty.  To ensure a quality experience for all we are limiting each cohort to 15 faculty members. Upon completion, participants will earn a Baylor IDEAL Digital Badge of Completion through Credly.

How can I register?

If you have questions, please email the Learning Design team at learningdesign@baylor.edu.  Otherwise, click the button below to register.

Click Here to Register

If you are interested in IDEAL, but unable to attend due to the date and time of the sessions, please email us at learningdesign@baylor.edu and we can add you to the waitlist for the next IDEAL offering.

When can I access the IDEAL course in Canvas?

The IDEAL course will be available ten days before the first live session. Students will be notified via email when the course is open.

Can I withdraw from IDEAL?

We will accept withdrawals from IDEAL up until the first day of classes for the semester IDEAL is offered. Due to the limited spots for the IDEAL Certificate, we encourage you to complete the program once it starts. If you choose to withdraw after the start of the program, wait-listed faculty members will be disadvantaged and miss out on the IDEAL offering.

Module Descriptions

Module 1: Accessibility at Baylor University

The Accessibility at Baylor University module introduces the foundation of accessible course design through the lens of Baylor's mission and Christian commitment to inclusion. Participants will explore common types of disabilities that may impact online learners and identify accommodations that can support their success. The module also introduces the concept of Universal Design for Learning, highlighting how thoughtful design changes can benefit all students. Through this exploration, participants will connect Baylor’s values to the importance of digital accessibility in online education.

Module 2: What is Digital Accessibility

The What is Digital Accessibility? module introduces the core concepts and standards that define accessible digital content. Participants will learn what digital accessibility means, explore the components of accessible documents and presentations, and understand the purpose of the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). The module also provides hands-on practice with tools that help assess and improve the accessibility of documents and Canvas pages, equipping participants to take meaningful steps toward more inclusive course design.

Module 3: Creating and Remediating Accessible Course Content

The Creating and Remediating Accessible Course Content module also explores the advantages of designing with accessibility in mind from the outset, rather than retrofitting materials later. The module emphasizes the wide range of learner needs and the universal benefits of accessible design. Participants will learn how to remediate existing documents and presentations to meet accessibility standards, as well as create accessible documents, while reinforcing the idea that accessibility benefits all learners.

Module 4: Accessible Multimedia

The Accessible Multimedia module highlights how accessible media benefits all learners—not just those with disabilities. From captions on videos to audio descriptions and transcript availability, participants will explore what makes multimedia truly accessible. This module allows learners to identify key components of accessible multimedia, examine when additional steps are needed to ensure inclusivity, and apply their skills by creating an accessible course welcome video. The module also reinforces how thoughtful design in media supports a wider range of learning environments and preferences. 

Module 5: Accommodations Requests and Legal Implications

The Accommodations Requests and Legal Implications module brings the course to a close by reinforcing the idea that accessibility is a journey of continuous learning and improvement. Participants will explore the role of Baylor’s Office of Access and Learning Accommodations, including the services it provides to both students and faculty, and how accommodation notifications are communicated. The module also addresses the legal responsibilities of faculty in providing appropriate accommodations, highlighting recent legal cases and their implications for higher education. Above all, this final module encourages grace in the learning process and a commitment to ongoing growth in creating inclusive learning environments.

Additional Learning Opportunities

Additional opportunities associated with designing and teaching online courses include:

• Baylor DIVE Program
• Baylor DEEP DIVE Program
• Baylor Academy for Teaching and Learning