IDEAL: Inclusive Design for Engagement and Accessibility in Learning

Course Overview

This six-week online course is designed to help instructors develop a strong foundation in accessible course design and its critical role in supporting all learners. Through a combination of asynchronous weekly readings, practical assignments, and live synchronous sessions, participants will explore key topics including Baylor University's approach to accessibility, the fundamentals of digital accessibility, and strategies for creating and remediating accessible course content. Additional modules focus on designing accessible multimedia and understanding the accommodations request process, including the role of the Office of Access and Learning Accommodations. Participants will also examine the legal considerations associated with inaccessible course design. By the end of the course, instructors will be able to recognize the value of accessibility and Universal Design for Learning and apply inclusive design practices in their own courses. 

Testimonials from IDEAL Participants

• The course gave me practical tools and clear guidelines (like using headings, checking contrast, and running the UDOIT review) that make accessibility feel much more manageable and part of my regular course design process. 

• One of the most important things I learned in IDEAL is how small design choices (like using proper headings and good color contrast) can make a big difference for accessibility.

Course Facilitators

• Lindsey Morris, Learning Experience Designer, CPACC, ADS
• Aleithia Stephens, Manager of Instructional Support
• Jane Mason, Instructional Support Specialist

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 six-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 1:00 pm central in Spring 2026 semester. 

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 Accessible Course Content

The Creating Accessible Course Content module focuses on the importance of designing course materials with accessibility in mind from the start. Participants will explore strategies for creating accessible documents, presentations, and digital content that are usable for all learners, including those with disabilities. Emphasis is placed on proactive design choices that ensure inclusivity, benefiting not only learners with specific needs but also enhancing the learning experience for all students. 

Module 4: Remediating Accessible Course Content

The Remediating Accessible Course Content module focuses on how to revise and update existing course materials to meet accessibility standards. The focus will be on remediating documents and presentations that may not have been designed with accessibility in mind initially. By applying practical techniques, instructors will gain the skills needed to enhance the usability of their content, ensuring that all students can fully engage with course materials. The module highlights the importance of retrofitting content to meet current accessibility guidelines and standards. 

Module 5: 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 6: 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