This CTL page covers the topic of accessibility in teaching: why it's so important for us to focus on it and various ways we can do that.

Ally is rooted in the principles of Universal Design and Universal Design for Learning so that it can benefit all students. The alternative formats, while designed with disabled students in mind, also benefit those without disabilities (universal design). 

Ally emphasizes autonomy, empowerment, inclusivity, and personal choice through each of its features, but particularly its alternative formats. By removing barriers to access, Ally helps create a more equitable educational environment where all students have the tools they need to succeed. 

Just a few of the alternative formats all students can select are HTML, ePub, Electronic Braille, and Audio.

For instructors, digital accessibility is essential for creating inclusive learning environments where all students can fully participate and succeed. It ensures that digital content is usable by all students, including those with disabilities, and reflects an institution’s commitment to equity and universal design. 

Ally not only helps identify and fix accessibility issues in course materials—it also serves as an educational tool for instructors. By providing in-context guidance, explanations, and resources, Ally empowers instructors to understand the “why” behind accessibility and build lasting skills to create more inclusive content. 

This dual role—guided support and ongoing education—makes Ally a powerful driver of cultural change toward more accessible and equitable education. 

To learn more about Ally, visit this Quick Start guide for instructors. To see a brief overview of how Ally integrates with Brightspace, watch this short video introduction.  

The Center for Teaching & Learning offers a workshop, “Improve Course Accessibility with Ally.” You can register for this workshop by visiting our Events page.  

If you are unable to attend a workshop, you can find a recording of this workshop on our Videos Resources page.