There is one (1) guideline for images presented in a digital context:
- Images should be accompanied by an “alt” attribute.
The “alt” attribute allows you to enter a short textual description of the image that tells the user more about the content or function of the image. The “alt” attribute serves to provide a textual description of the images that :
- can be read by screen readers used by individuals with visual or cognitive disabilities.
- appear within a browser in the event the images do not load on the page.
- can be identified by search engines that can help a user find content online.
Below are a few scenarios and examples.
Empty Alt Tag
If the text or narrative in the vicinity of the image conveys the content of the image, it is acceptable to leave an empty alt attribute.
Example:
“The placement of the emojis on the brain image are not necessarily representative of where the emotional response and associated language development actually occur.”
Alt = ” “
Canvas Empty Alt Example
When adding an image to a page in Canvas, the Alt text field in the Attributes section can be left blank when the surrounding text properly conveys the content of the image.
Descriptive Alt Tag
If the text or narrative relates to the image but does not directly describe the image the “alt” attribute should provide a description of the image.
Example:
“The effect of emoji use in text messaging and other digital communications on emotional development and language expression are as yet unknown.”
Alt = “a brain composed of emojis”
Canvas Descriptive Alt Example
When adding an image to a page in Canvas, the Alt text field in the Attributes section should be completed when the text or narrative does not directly describe the content of the image.
Images as Links Alt Tag
When an image is also used as a link or button, the “alt” attribute should reflect the function of the image.
Example:
“A recent article in the Huffington Post outlines the effect of emojis use on language development in children.”
Alt = “Huffington Post Article on Emojis and Language Development”
This image is being used as a link to an article; as such, the “alt” text indicates that this image links to the article.
Canvas Functional Alt Example
When adding an image to a page in Canvas that is also a link to a URL or other resource, the Alt text field in the Attributes section should be completed with text that describes the function or purpose of the image.
Resources
- Alternative Text This webpage outlines the role of “alt” tags in properly identifying images in digital content.