Defining Accessibility

This PowerPoint will cover the following topics: – Defining Accessibility – Universal Design – Principles of Accessible Design – Examples of Accessibility – Accommodations for Students – Accommodation Process

What is Accessibility? Accessibility is a general term used to describe the degree to which a product (device, service, or environment) is accessible by as many people as possible. It is the ability to access the functionality, and benefit of a system or entity.

Seven Principles of Universal Design Equitable use Flexibility in use Simple and intuitive Perceptible information Tolerance of error Low physical effort Size and space for approach and use “The Center for Universal Design (1997). The Principles of Universal Design, Version 2.0. Raleigh, NC: North Carolina State University”

Key Principles of Accessible Design Provide alternative text Provide document structure Provide headers for data tables Ensure users can complete and submit all forms Ensure links make sense out of context – no “click here” links Caption and/or provide transcripts for media Design to standards From WebAIM – webaim.org

Examples of Accessibility for an Online Environment Utilize a good heading structure and add alternative text for images for Microsoft Word documents Create searchable PDFs Utilize already designed templates and add alternative text for images for PowerPoint. Use Accessibility Checker in PowerPoint Provide transcripts of audio clips Provide closed captioning for video clips

Accommodations for Students Ideally, all physical and digital environments would be universally accessible. – Universal design of content is ideal; universal design is the creation of documents and media in such a way that it is malleable for any circumstance and adapts to many situations and adaptive technology. – Accommodations are made for students to avoid any barriers to course content. – Accommodations are set so that all stakeholders (faculty and students) are aware of changes that may need to be made to the existing environment.

Accommodation Process Students with disabilities register with Student Access Center Students professors a letter of accommodation Students are encouraged to discuss accommodation needs with each professor If professors have questions, there is a FAQ section under Faculty/Staff Information at or call the office at