Audio Descriptions Are Now in Blackboard LMS: Video Studio
Published in recognition of Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD)
In short: Blackboard LMS: Video Studio now supports audio descriptions, automatically converting typed text into spoken audio at any timestamp in a video. Instructors don't need to re-record anything. Students can toggle descriptions on or off. This update supports WCAG 1.2.5 compliance and extends Video Studio's existing accessibility toolkit, which includes editable captions, transcripts, downloadable video, and variable playback speed.
On the eve of Global Accessibility Awareness Day, we're announcing the availability of Audio Descriptions for Inclusive Video in Blackboard LMS: Video Studio.
Making video content truly accessible has always required more than just captions. For students who are visually impaired or have low vision, a video that doesn't describe what's happening on screen—the text in a slide, a diagram, an action—leaves out information that sighted viewers take for granted. Audio descriptions close that gap.
How audio descriptions work in Video Studio
The workflow is built into the Video Studio interface instructors already use. To add an audio description, an instructor selects a timestamp in the video and types the description, with no separate recording session required. Video Studio automatically converts that text to spoken audio.
Before publishing to a course, instructors can preview the full video with descriptions included and make edits to ensure everything is accurate.
On the student side, audio descriptions are optional. When turned on, the video pauses to play the description, and then resumes automatically so learners never miss a beat of the visual content.
Just one of many accessible features within Video Studio
Audio descriptions are the latest addition to a Video Studio accessibility feature set that already includes:
- Editable captions and transcripts, powered by AWS, built directly into the Video Studio experience
- Alternative format downloads via Blackboard Ally, so students can access transcripts in the format that works best for them
- Downloadable videos for offline use
- Variable playback speed to support different learning needs and preferences
Accessible for instructors, not just students
Accessibility in Video Studio isn't limited to the learner experience. Jennifer Vose, an instructor at Bridgewater State University who is visually impaired and uses a screen reader, has used multiple video tools throughout her teaching career. Video Studio is the first she describes as genuinely independent to use.
"I just cannot tell you how liberating it feels to be able to do this without needing someone else to start the recording, stop the recording, edit themselves out of the recording, save the recording. To be able to do this all myself is just amazing."
Compliance context
Audio descriptions in Video Studio support WCAG Success Criterion 1.2.5, consistent with Blackboard's overall commitment to accessibility. For institutions in the United States navigating ADA Title II requirements, we've published a full strategy guide and playbook that goes beyond compliance deadlines to outline how institutions can build a lasting culture of accessibility.
Ready to bring accessible, inclusive video into your courses? Learn more about Video Studio and reach out to your account representative to get started.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are audio descriptions in Blackboard LMS: Video Studio?
Audio descriptions are spoken narrations of on-screen visual information — such as text, graphics, or actions — that aren't conveyed by the existing audio track. In Video Studio, instructors type a description at a specific timestamp and the platform automatically converts it to spoken audio, without requiring a separate recording.
Who benefits from audio descriptions in video?
Audio descriptions primarily support students who are visually impaired or have low vision, but they also benefit learners in low-bandwidth situations, those who process information better through audio, and students reviewing complex visual material like charts or diagrams.
Can students turn audio descriptions off?
Yes. Audio descriptions are student-controlled. When enabled, the video pauses to play the description and then resumes automatically. Students who don't need descriptions can leave them off without affecting their experience.
Does Video Studio support WCAG compliance for video?
Yes. Audio descriptions support WCAG Success Criterion 1.2.5 (Audio Description, Prerecorded). Video Studio also includes editable captions and transcripts, supporting WCAG 1.2.2 (Captions, Prerecorded) and 1.2.3 (Audio Description or Media Alternative).
How do audio descriptions relate to ADA Title II requirements?
Title II of the ADA requires public universities and colleges to meet WCAG 2.1 Level AA standards for digital content, which includes video accessibility. Audio descriptions address the 1.2.5 criterion specifically. Blackboard has published a Title II Strategy Guide and Playbook for institutions building out their compliance programs.
Does Video Studio work with Blackboard Ally?
Yes. Captions and transcripts generated in Video Studio can be downloaded in alternative formats through Blackboard Ally, giving students additional flexibility in how they access content.