2. Links
Link text is text that links users to a new page or resource (internally or externally). A meaningful name tells people where they are going. Long-linked text that goes across lines does not always open properly and can be confusing. Links should be short and descriptive (written in a way that makes sense out of context and says exactly what the link is about or what the user is meant to do with it).
DO
Write descriptive links
Course schedule
New students
DON’T
Write vague links
Click here
https://www.auckland.ac.nz/en/students/newstudents.html
Fixing issues with UDOIT
Problem 1: Link has nondescript text
Meaning
The link is not appropriately named/doesn’t describe the content it is linked to. Links should clearly describe the content they are linking to e.g. ‘Class Timetable’ rather than ‘timetable.html’ or ‘click here’.
How to fix it
In UDOIT Advantage, click the Review button for more information. Replace the current link text in the text field or click the checkbox to remove the link, then click Save.
A screenshot of UDOIT asking the user to enter new link text. The link text is currently set to click here, which is not descriptive.
Problem 2: Links should contain text
Meaning
The link is empty; it contains no text, only an image.
How to fix it
In UDOIT Advantage, click the Review button for more information. Add new link text to the UDOIT tool or alt text to links containing only images and click Save. This will provide a description for users of screen readers.
A screenshot of UDOIT asking the user to enter new link text. The link text field is currently blank.
Problem 3: Adjacent links found
Meaning
The link is not appropriately named/doesn’t describe the content it is linked to. Links should clearly describe the content they are linking to e.g., ‘Class Timetable’ rather than ‘timetable.html’ or ‘click here’.
How to fix it
In UDOIT Advantage, click the Review button for more information. Replace the current link text in the text field or click the checkbox to remove the link, then click Save.
Click on each word and remove the adjacent links.
Then, highlight all the text previously linked and create a single new link.
Highlight all the words to be linked and click the link icon in the rich text editor to assign a new link.
Getting it right in Canvas
When creating links, consider where they lead to, and label them accordingly. For example, write “Visit Student Services.” rather than “For Student Services, click here.”
Tips to avoid problems
- Keep linked phrases short, 3-5 words.
- Links should describe what they are linking to.
- Links should be in contrasting colours to be mindful of learners with low vision or colour blindness.
- Avoid linking headings.
- Never use a URL for the link text—screen readers will read out the URL verbatim, e.g. www.canvas…
Page added 28/05/2024