Welcome to another month with The T&L Tea!

In this month’s post, we’ll be discussing an important aspect of any course: accessibility. Digital accessibility is the design of digital resources and websites that are accessible to disabled individuals with or without the use of assistive technologies. At Central Piedmont, our goal is always to create an inclusive learning environment where students can thrive and ultimately succeed, both online and in the classroom.

Not only is accessibility a matter of equity, but it is also required by federal law through the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Both of these acts prohibit the discrimination of individuals with disabilities in education. Watch the video below to learn more about the impact of these acts and how they create equal opportunity for students.

Now that you’re more familiar with digital accessibility, let’s put it into practice. Here are a few strategies that can help improve your course’s accessibility:

• 1. Provide alternative formats for texts and readings such as audio recordings or videos.
  2. Use accessible technologies and tools that are compatible with assistive technologies such as screen readers.
  3. Design inclusive and/or alternative assessments.
  4. Use inclusive language.
  5. Communicate with your students about their needs and accommodations.

Related Trainings

This was just an introduction to digital accessibility. To dive in and learn more you can register for training from the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence. Visit our Events Calendar to register for current sessions or visit the Course Catalog for self-paced training options. Or, if you have any questions or need additional assistance, please reach out to us at ctle@cpcc.edu.

• • Digital Accessibility 101
  • Introduction to SCULPTing Online Accessibility: Word Basics
  • SCULPTing Accessible Colors, Images, and Videos
  • SCULPTing Accessible PowerPoints and Tables