Web Accessibility Foundations: Key Terms and Standards

Creating an inclusive web starts with understanding the language of accessibility. If you want to design, develop, or manage digital products that everyone can use, mastering foundational concepts is your essential first step. This text-based course guides you through the core terminology, standards, and practices of web accessibility. You will move from a basic awareness to a clear, practical understanding of how different users interact with the web and how to meet modern compliance standards. What you'll learn: Understand core disability types and how they affect digital interactions; Navigate the WCAG framework, including compliance levels and modern updates; Master essential accessibility terms like semantic HTML, ARIA landmarks, and screen reader compatibility; Learn to evaluate web content using keyboard navigation and automated testing concepts; Apply inclusive design principles to color contrast, typography, and interactive elements. The course starts with basic definitions and foundational concepts of inclusion before moving into technical standards and practical testing methodologies. Through clear written explanations and real-world examples, you will build a solid vocabulary to discuss and implement accessibility confidently. This course is designed for absolute beginners, including web developers, designers, content creators, and product managers who want to learn accessibility fundamentals from scratch. No prior experience with compliance standards is required. Start reading today to build a more inclusive and accessible web for all users.