Accessibility: D2L

Why Is This Important?

Desire2Learn (D2L) is the official learning platform for SDSU. It includes built-in accessibility features that support accessible teaching and learning. D2L provides an equal learning experience to any users.

When To Use It

Anytime you are posting any content on D2L, such as course files, creating quizzes, recording lectures or organizing content.

How To Use It
  • Use Panorama's to check your accessibility score, submit documents before it becomes student-facing and reprocess documents.
  • Use the accessibility features to test how your documents will be read.
Alternative Formats (D2L Panorama)

Panorama allows students to download course materials in alternative formats, such as audio, HTML, ePub and tagged PDFs, and can adjust individual browsing preferences, such as font size and color. These formats support different learning preferences and assistive technologies.

Screen Reader Compatibility (D2L ReadSpeaker)

D2L is designed to work with screen readers. Proper use of headings, alt text and structured content ensures compatibility and improves navigation for students using these tools. Additional ReadSpeaker provides text-to-speech tools inside D2L that enhance accessibility and support learning.

ReadSpeaker reads various content types aloud, including course materials, PDFs and math equations.

Closed Captioning in D2L Media Library

Videos uploaded to D2L Media and Panopto have closed captions to support students who are deaf or hard of hearing, as well as those who benefit from visual reinforcement.

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Accessible Quizzes and Assessments (LockDown Browser and Monitor)

D2L allows instructors to create quizzes with extended time, accommodations, alternative formats, accessible question types and proctoring security through LockDown Browser and Monitor. Use clear instructions, avoid timed autosubmissions and ensure compatibility with screen readers.

Content Layout and Course Organization

Use D2L’s accessible content tool structure your course content. It provides proper heading levels, contrast ratios and layout options that support readability and usability. Organize your course using consistent module structures, clear titles and logical sequencing. This helps all students — especially those using assistive technology — navigate your course more easily.

Accessibility Checker in D2L

D2L includes a built-in accessibility checker for HTML content. Use it to identify and fix issues like missing alt text, poor contrast and improper heading structure before publishing materials.

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Creating Webpages in D2L

Creating accessible course materials in D2L doesn’t have to be complicated. One of the easiest ways to start is by building your content right in D2L with the HTML editor instead of uploading individual files.

In Classic View

  1. In a module, click New > Create a File.
    • This opens the D2L HTML editor, where you can type content directly or copy and paste text.
    • Use the formatting tools to add images, videos, links and other media.

In the New Content Experience (NCE)

  1. In a unit, click Create New > Page.
    • The D2L HTML editor will open for you to begin adding content.

Webpage Accessibility Best Practices

  • When creating content in the HTML editor, it’s important to follow accessibility best practices to ensure all learners can access and understand your materials.
  • For guidance on topics such as color contrast, headings, link text, alternative text and accessible multimedia, view the disability guide. These resources walk you through key principles and provide examples for creating accessible course content in D2L.

Use the Accessibility Checker

  • Before publishing, use the D2L accessibility checker in the HTML editor. It will flag issues and provide guidance on how to fix them to ensure your content is accessible to all learners.