The campus has begun a coordinated effort to achieve compliance with the requirements for the accessibility of digital information. Common forms of digital information include Web pages, syllabi, PowerPoint presentations, text/graphics documents, pictures, video, and audio files. It also applies to the conversion of textbooks to accessible formats. An important factor in the accessibility compliance plan is for faculty and staff to use standardized tools and procedures. This will help ensure that digital information across all departments and units adhere to common standards and can be more easily supported.
We understand, however, that some instructional materials may not be able to be converted to an accessible format. If a student expresses concern that he or she can’t gain access to digital course materials, the faculty should refer the student to the Center on Disabilities (COD) and make every effort, working with COD, to provide accommodation for the student.
Since faculty and staff will have varying skills and interest in creating compliant materials, an array of training and support services will be provided to support the conversion efforts. As college and department technical staff will be a key resource in this effort, we are providing below recommendations for accessibility software and “best practices” for creating accessible materials and Web pages.