Accessibility and Inclusion with Top Hat
Our commitment
Top Hat is dedicated to continuously improving our websites, applications and features to create an accessible and inclusive learning environment for as many students as possible. Our products and services are designed based on the internationally recognized Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 Level AA and Section 508 standards in the United States.
To ensure and validate our accessibility compliance, a third-party vendor conducts regular audits of the Top Hat platform.
Allow students to learn anytime, from anywhere
Top Hat makes it easy for students to access course materials on any device. With Top Hat’s offline mode, students don’t need stable access to WiFi in order to complete their work. They also have the ability to call in to remotely-delivered lectures and text their answers to questions, removing barriers to participation.
Personalize accommodations for all learners
Improve and customize the learning experience based on student needs. Instructors have the flexibility to schedule readings, assignments and tests for specific learners at various times and for different durations. Instructors can also print assessments and allow students to complete them manually if they are unable to participate within the platform.
Make all content accessible
Educational content in Top Hat is designed with accessibility in mind. Digital textbooks and assignments are optimized so students can access them on their preferred devices. Instructors can also include alternative text on images in chapters and assignments for students using screen readers. Top Hat is compatible with screen readers and has keyboard navigation to make it easy for anyone to progress through content. Other features such as closed captioning on videos, and transcripts of recorded lectures provide alternative formats for students to learn.
Create an inclusive community
Maintain connection with all your students. Discussions and a variety of question types in Top Hat invite all students to participate comfortably in class and level the playing field. Plus, check-in more frequently with tools that allow you to reach the whole class or offer one-to-one support. You can expand these conversations outside of the classroom in Slate, Top Hat’s community app, allowing students to connect with each other in a safe space. Questions and discussions in Top Hat can also be anonymized to give learners an extra sense of comfort when addressing sensitive topics.
“Top Hat is an excellent tool for increasing student engagement and determining your success in the classroom based on real-time feedback. It contributes to an inclusive classroom, as all student voices are ‘heard’ and recognized.”
Natasha LiebigVisiting Assistant Professor, Philosophy, Adams State University
Read our accessibility factsheet
View our VPATs
How to create an accessible course in Top Hat
We’re here to support you
Our dedicated team of instructional designers offer instructors tailored advice and one-on-one assistance, helping to provide an equitable learning experience for all students.