Use Properly Formatted Lists in Canvas

Well-formatted lists improve content organization and accessibility for all students. Using the Rich Content Editor's list function ensures that lists are correctly structured and easy to follow.

Quick Links: | Importance of Properly Formatted Lists | Benefits of Structured Lists for Student Learning | Create Accessible Lists in Canvas |

Importance of Properly Formatted Lists

Lists are a simple yet powerful way to present information clearly and consistently. However, manually created lists—such as typing dashes or numbers—are not programmatically structured and may not be recognized by assistive technologies. Using the built-in list tools in the Rich Content Editor ensures lists are accessible and properly formatted.

Manually created lists can create barriers because:

• Screen readers may not recognize them as lists, making navigation confusing.
• Students with cognitive disabilities may struggle with inconsistent formatting.
• Manual formatting can lead to uneven spacing and reduced readability.

Benefits of Structured Lists for Student Learning

Using the list function in the Rich Content Editor ensures lists are accessible and clearly organized.

• Are programmatically defined so screen readers can identify and navigate them.
• Support hierarchical organization through nested lists.
• Improve readability and visual consistency for all students.

Create Accessible Lists in Canvas

1. In the Rich Content Editor, place your cursor where you want the list to appear.
2. Select Bulleted List to create a bulleted list or Numbered List to create a numbered list.
3. Enter text for each list item.
4. Press Enter to move to the next item.
5. To create a nested list, press Tab to indent a list item.
6. To remove an indent, press Shift+Tab.
7. Review your list to ensure items are concise and clearly written.

Using structured lists improves accessibility and enhances clarity for all students.

 Still need help? Drop in to Academic Technology's live faculty support room via Zoom, schedule a one-on-one consultation with an instructional designer, or reach out to the Technology & Learning Program to ensure your courses are fully accessible.
  
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