Accessible Tables in Canvas

Accessible tables help all students, including those using screen readers, understand and navigate structured information. In Canvas, use tables only for presenting data or related information. They should not be used to control the layout or design of a page. This guide explains how to build accessible tables using the Rich Content Editor.

Step 1: Add a Table

Anywhere in Canvas you are using the RCE, place your cursor where you want a table, then click the Table icon in the toolbar to select the row and column size you want.

Step 2: Add a Caption

Adding a table caption in Canvas helps all users quickly understand what the table is about, especially those using screen readers. A caption provides a brief summary or title for the table, which improves accessibility and gives context without needing to read the entire table. Click the Accessibility Checker in the RCE bottom toolbar to easily add a caption.

Step 3: Add Headers

Using header rows and columns in Canvas tables is important for accessibility and clarity. Headers label the data in each row or column, helping all students quickly understand the structure of the table. For screen reader users, headers are essential because they allow the screen reader to announce the context of each cell as users move through the table. Click the Accessibility Checker in the RCE bottom toolbar to easily add a table header row or column.

Accessible Table Best Practices

Avoid merged cells. Merging cells, such as combining the top row for a title, can confuse screen readers. Use separate cells for each piece of data to keep your table accessible and easy to navigate.
Keep the layout simple. Use a straightforward table with one layer of rows and columns. Avoid nesting tables or creating complex structures so all users, including those using assistive technology, can follow the information easily.
Use real tables, not images. Screen readers cannot read text inside an image. To ensure all students can access and interact with your data, use actual tables created in Canvas rather than inserting table screenshots.