Category 3: Accessible Tables
Creating accessible tables is crucial for ensuring that all users, including those using assistive technologies, can understand and navigate the data presented.
- Navigate to the course, page, discussion, or assignment where you want to add a table.
- Click on the Edit button to enter the Rich Content Editor mode.
- Place your cursor in the area where you'd like to insert the table.
- Click on the Table icon in the toolbar. The icon looks like a small grid.
- Click the arrow next to the Table icon to open the dropdown menu.
- Choose the dimensions of your table by selecting the desired number of rows and columns.
Need more detail?
Delve into the in-depth walkthrough below, complete with images and various notes for every step.
In-Depth Walkthrough
Step 1
Log in to your Canvas account and navigate to the course, page, discussion, or assignment where you want to add the table.
Step 2
Click on the "Edit" button to enter the Rich Content Editor mode.
Step 3
Place your cursor in the area where you'd like to insert the table.
Step 4
Click on the "Table" icon in the toolbar. The icon looks like a small grid.
Step 5
Click the arrow next to the Table icon to open the dropdown menu.
Step 6
Choose the dimensions of your table by selecting the desired number of rows and columns. Click on the squares to set the size of your table, and the table will be inserted automatically.
Accessible Table Best Practices
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Do not use merged cells: You will be tempted to merge the top row into one cell to use for a title. Merged cells can cause confusion for screen readers. Instead, try to keep the table structure as simple as possible with separate cells for each piece of data
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Keep a simple and clear layout: Complex tables with nested tables, multiple layers, or irregular structures can be difficult for screen readers to interpret. Stick to a simple, clear layout with a single layer of rows and columns.
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Use a descriptive caption: A caption briefly describes the purpose of the table. To add a caption, click the Table Properties icon on the pop-up menu that appears. Mouse over each icon to see its name.
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Check the “Show Caption” box: This will give you space above the table so that you can add a descriptive summary of the table.
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Use row headers: Headers help screen readers navigate the table by differentiating between header cells and data cells. To designate a row as a header, highlight the top row and access the Row Properties from the dropdown menu next to the Table Icon. Change the Row type to Header
Accessible Tables FAQ
Can I use an image of a table?
No. Images of tables are not accessible, leaving no way for a user to get the information because assistive technology only reads image alternative text. If you only have a .jpg, or other image file type, of the table you must recreate it using the table tool in Canvas.
Can I use tables to design my Canvas page?
No. Tables should not be used as a layout, formatting, or design tool.
