Enhancing the Accessibility of Instructional Content in Higher Education Through AI

Abstract

As artificial intelligence becomes increasingly integrated into higher education, it presents new opportunities to enhance the accessibility of instructional materials. This session examines how Microsoft Copilot, Adobe AI, and built-in Windows 11 features such as live auto-captions can support more accessible content creation and remediation across Microsoft 365 applications and PDF workflows. Focusing on commonly used instructional formats including Word documents, PowerPoint presentations, and PDFs shared through learning management systems, this presentation highlights how AI tools can assist in identifying and addressing accessibility barriers. Examples will illustrate how Copilot can support content development, organization, and alternative text generation, while Adobe AI tools streamline improvements to PDF structure, tagging, and usability. Windows 11 auto-captioning features will also be discussed as a way to enhance access to audio and video content. The session explores practical approaches for integrating AI-supported accessibility strategies into existing teaching and course design workflows. Attention is given to aligning these approaches with accessibility standards and inclusive teaching practices while maintaining efficiency for instructors, instructional designers, technologists, and teaching assistants. Attendees will gain insight into key strategies, considerations, and potential applications of AI to create more inclusive, accessible instructional materials.