Web accessibility is really important for building websites, especially for universities. Universities have a wide variety of people using their sites, including students and staff who have different abilities. Unfortunately, many web developers still make common mistakes that can make it hard for some users to navigate their sites. By learning about these mistakes and fixing them, developers can make websites that everyone can use easily.
One big mistake is not using semantic HTML. Semantic HTML helps organize the content on a webpage by using clear elements like headings, paragraphs, and lists. This way, screen readers can read the content correctly. For example, if developers don’t use heading tags (, , etc.) correctly, it can be confusing for users who rely on these tools to understand the page structure. Instead of just using CSS for design, developers should use the right HTML elements to show meaning and organization.
Another common problem is not providing enough alt text for images. Images are important, but they can create problems for users who can’t see them if there’s no description. Developers should always add alt text to images that explains what the image is about. If an image is just for decoration, it’s okay to use an empty alt attribute () so screen readers will skip it and not add extra noise.
Poor color contrast is another big issue. If the colors don’t contrast well, it’s hard for users with visual impairments to read the text or see important elements. The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) suggest that normal text should have a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1, and large text should be at least 3:1. Developers need to check their color choices to make sure they follow these guidelines. Tools like contrast checkers can help make sure text is easy to read against the background.
Another mistake is having limited keyboard navigation. Some users prefer using keyboards instead of mice, especially those with mobility challenges. If a website only works with mouse clicks, it can be very frustrating for those users. Developers should make sure that all the interactive parts, like forms and buttons, can be accessed easily with keyboard shortcuts. This includes setting up proper focus states and managing the tab order to improve keyboard navigation.
Bad heading structure can confuse users who use assistive technologies. If headings don’t follow a logical order, it makes information hard to follow. Developers should use headings in a clear way, making sure each level accurately represents the content. The heading should only be used once as the main title, and and should introduce subsections properly.
Forms lacking accessibility are another area that needs work. Forms are everywhere on university sites, whether for applying to school or giving feedback. Each part of a form should have clear labels that match the input fields. This helps screen reader users know what information is being asked for. Also, developers should give clear error messages to help users understand what went wrong and how to fix it.
Not using ARIA roles and properties correctly can also complicate accessibility. While semantic HTML is important, ARIA (Accessible Rich Internet Applications) attributes can help with complex web apps. However, using ARIA attributes incorrectly can lead to more confusion. Developers should use ARIA only when native HTML elements can’t do the job right, keeping the markup simple and clear.
Autoplaying videos and sounds can also create issues for users. While videos and animations can be helpful, having them play automatically can be distracting, especially for those with hearing issues or cognitive disabilities. Developers should allow users to control playback of media and provide captions for audio content. This helps everyone engage with media in their preferred way.
Making PDFs inaccessible is another common mistake. Universities often use PDFs for things like course information. However, many PDFs aren’t made with accessibility in mind, making it hard or impossible for assistive technologies to read them. Developers should ensure that PDFs meet accessibility standards or provide accessible HTML versions of important documents.
Ignoring error identification and suggestions in forms can also cause headaches for users. If they run into a problem when submitting a form, they should be told clearly what the issue is. Developers should use ARIA live regions or HTML validation messages to help users find and solve errors easily.
Another frequent oversight is not using meaningful link text. Links should tell users where they lead. Using vague phrases like “click here” or “read more” isn’t helpful. Instead, phrases like “Apply for the Latest Scholarship Here” give users important information about the link’s purpose. This is crucial for users with cognitive disabilities, as it makes navigation easier.
Regular testing for accessibility is super important. Web accessibility isn’t a one-time chore; it’s an ongoing effort. As websites get updated with new info and features, they should be tested regularly. Developers can use automated tools like Axe or Lighthouse, but they should also do manual testing with real users who rely on assistive technologies.
Not offering a way to contact support for accessibility questions can leave users frustrated. Having a section for accessibility support allows users to report problems or share suggestions. Developers should make sure this feedback section is easy to find and use, showing that the university cares about being inclusive.
Another mistake is forgetting to include skip navigation links. For users who use keyboards or screen readers, long pages with many links can get tedious. Adding a skip link at the top of each page lets users jump to the main content without having to go through all the links every time. This small change can greatly improve experience for users who rely on assistive technologies.
Developers must also ensure that the website is responsive. Websites should be tested on different devices and screen sizes to confirm they’re still accessible. This means checking that text is clear, navigation works, and buttons are easy to click on touch devices. Making sure everything responds well helps everyone access the information easily.
Not keeping users informed about content updates can also make things tough. If content changes often without clear labels, it confuses users, especially those using screen readers. Clearly marking sections with updated content or providing summaries can help users keep track and understand.
Finally, developers shouldn’t ignore accessibility in user interface design. They should follow design rules that focus on accessibility. This means making sure things look good and work well for everyone. For example, buttons should be big enough to tap easily, and designs should not cause issues for users with sensitivities.
In summary, creating accessible websites for universities takes careful thought during both the design and building stages. By avoiding common mistakes—like neglecting semantic HTML or not testing regularly—developers can create online spaces that are welcoming for all users. It’s important for university web development teams to focus on accessibility, learn about best practices, and use testing and user feedback. This way, they meet legal standards and support fairness and inclusion, helping more people connect with university resources and information.
Web accessibility is really important for building websites, especially for universities. Universities have a wide variety of people using their sites, including students and staff who have different abilities. Unfortunately, many web developers still make common mistakes that can make it hard for some users to navigate their sites. By learning about these mistakes and fixing them, developers can make websites that everyone can use easily.
One big mistake is not using semantic HTML. Semantic HTML helps organize the content on a webpage by using clear elements like headings, paragraphs, and lists. This way, screen readers can read the content correctly. For example, if developers don’t use heading tags (, , etc.) correctly, it can be confusing for users who rely on these tools to understand the page structure. Instead of just using CSS for design, developers should use the right HTML elements to show meaning and organization.
Another common problem is not providing enough alt text for images. Images are important, but they can create problems for users who can’t see them if there’s no description. Developers should always add alt text to images that explains what the image is about. If an image is just for decoration, it’s okay to use an empty alt attribute () so screen readers will skip it and not add extra noise.
Poor color contrast is another big issue. If the colors don’t contrast well, it’s hard for users with visual impairments to read the text or see important elements. The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) suggest that normal text should have a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1, and large text should be at least 3:1. Developers need to check their color choices to make sure they follow these guidelines. Tools like contrast checkers can help make sure text is easy to read against the background.
Another mistake is having limited keyboard navigation. Some users prefer using keyboards instead of mice, especially those with mobility challenges. If a website only works with mouse clicks, it can be very frustrating for those users. Developers should make sure that all the interactive parts, like forms and buttons, can be accessed easily with keyboard shortcuts. This includes setting up proper focus states and managing the tab order to improve keyboard navigation.
Bad heading structure can confuse users who use assistive technologies. If headings don’t follow a logical order, it makes information hard to follow. Developers should use headings in a clear way, making sure each level accurately represents the content. The heading should only be used once as the main title, and and should introduce subsections properly.
Forms lacking accessibility are another area that needs work. Forms are everywhere on university sites, whether for applying to school or giving feedback. Each part of a form should have clear labels that match the input fields. This helps screen reader users know what information is being asked for. Also, developers should give clear error messages to help users understand what went wrong and how to fix it.
Not using ARIA roles and properties correctly can also complicate accessibility. While semantic HTML is important, ARIA (Accessible Rich Internet Applications) attributes can help with complex web apps. However, using ARIA attributes incorrectly can lead to more confusion. Developers should use ARIA only when native HTML elements can’t do the job right, keeping the markup simple and clear.
Autoplaying videos and sounds can also create issues for users. While videos and animations can be helpful, having them play automatically can be distracting, especially for those with hearing issues or cognitive disabilities. Developers should allow users to control playback of media and provide captions for audio content. This helps everyone engage with media in their preferred way.
Making PDFs inaccessible is another common mistake. Universities often use PDFs for things like course information. However, many PDFs aren’t made with accessibility in mind, making it hard or impossible for assistive technologies to read them. Developers should ensure that PDFs meet accessibility standards or provide accessible HTML versions of important documents.
Ignoring error identification and suggestions in forms can also cause headaches for users. If they run into a problem when submitting a form, they should be told clearly what the issue is. Developers should use ARIA live regions or HTML validation messages to help users find and solve errors easily.
Another frequent oversight is not using meaningful link text. Links should tell users where they lead. Using vague phrases like “click here” or “read more” isn’t helpful. Instead, phrases like “Apply for the Latest Scholarship Here” give users important information about the link’s purpose. This is crucial for users with cognitive disabilities, as it makes navigation easier.
Regular testing for accessibility is super important. Web accessibility isn’t a one-time chore; it’s an ongoing effort. As websites get updated with new info and features, they should be tested regularly. Developers can use automated tools like Axe or Lighthouse, but they should also do manual testing with real users who rely on assistive technologies.
Not offering a way to contact support for accessibility questions can leave users frustrated. Having a section for accessibility support allows users to report problems or share suggestions. Developers should make sure this feedback section is easy to find and use, showing that the university cares about being inclusive.
Another mistake is forgetting to include skip navigation links. For users who use keyboards or screen readers, long pages with many links can get tedious. Adding a skip link at the top of each page lets users jump to the main content without having to go through all the links every time. This small change can greatly improve experience for users who rely on assistive technologies.
Developers must also ensure that the website is responsive. Websites should be tested on different devices and screen sizes to confirm they’re still accessible. This means checking that text is clear, navigation works, and buttons are easy to click on touch devices. Making sure everything responds well helps everyone access the information easily.
Not keeping users informed about content updates can also make things tough. If content changes often without clear labels, it confuses users, especially those using screen readers. Clearly marking sections with updated content or providing summaries can help users keep track and understand.
Finally, developers shouldn’t ignore accessibility in user interface design. They should follow design rules that focus on accessibility. This means making sure things look good and work well for everyone. For example, buttons should be big enough to tap easily, and designs should not cause issues for users with sensitivities.
In summary, creating accessible websites for universities takes careful thought during both the design and building stages. By avoiding common mistakes—like neglecting semantic HTML or not testing regularly—developers can create online spaces that are welcoming for all users. It’s important for university web development teams to focus on accessibility, learn about best practices, and use testing and user feedback. This way, they meet legal standards and support fairness and inclusion, helping more people connect with university resources and information.