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TIPS for Accessible Tables
Even when using data tables, some basic rules should be followed:
- Use a table caption so people will understand the content of the table; some applications will prompt you for an input of captions and will code it properly.
- Use table headers for data tables to describe the content of the column or row. This helps students understand the information is laid out in the table. True headers will include the appropriate code to let assistive devices know the text is a header rather than regular text. Instructions for designating table headers in Blackboard and table headers in Microsoft Word can be found in the section below.
Important: Please note that table headers are different than headings used in text. Do not use headings for text in your tables. - Make sure the content will be read in a logical order.
- Avoid merging cells, when possible:
You should use the simplest configuration possible. If merging is necessary, make sure content is read in the correct order (try to tab through table content).
Create Tables
- Create tables in Blackboard (make sure you check the caption option and add a caption for accessibility).
- Create tables in Microsoft Word 2013 (includes text, videos, and sample documents).
- Create tables in Microsoft Word 2010 (text and video).
- See Accessibility Cheatsheets from The National Center on Disability and Access to Education
Create Table Headers in Microsoft Word
View MS Word: Tables from PCC (2.48 min, cc) to learn how to create table headers in MS Word. You will notice that column headers can be created with this program, but row headers cannot, which is a limitation of Word. There are two important steps to note:
- Designate the column headers.
- Select “Repeat Header Row” (enables the table row to repeat if the table spans across pages).
Create Table Headers in Blackboard
If you create a table in Blackboard, it is easy to define headers. This will insert the appropriate html tag to let assistive technologies know the designated text is a header. Below, you will see how to add a header row:
- Highlight the row that will include the column headers.
- Select the row icon on the content editor toolbar.
- From the Row Type dropdown menu, select Headers.
- Select Update to save the changes.
