Universal Design & Digital Accessibility In Online Courses: A Guide To DoJ Compliance

Description  Overview Instructors are always looking for ways to create engaging courses, but it is vital to ensure that all students, regardless of their abilities or characteristics, can fully participate. This presentation introduces the universal design (UD) approach, a powerful framework that ensures courses are welcoming and accessible to all students, including those with disabilities. UD principles also help institutions comply with the latest Department of Justice Ruling on the accessible design of digital content and services, reducing the need for individual accommodations. Participants will learn how adopting a UD approach can overcome common accessibility challenges in online courses and promote inclusivity. The presentation will also offer resources for continued learning about universal design and accessible online education. Objectives Compare the accommodations-only approach with the universal design (UD) approach for meeting the accessibility needs of students with disabilities. Identify accessibility challenges faced by students with various disabilities in online learning. Describe the principles of a UD framework for designing inclusive online learning experiences. List at least five practical strategies to make online courses more welcoming, accessible, and inclusive for all students. Discuss the role of UD in compliance with the recent Department of Justice Ruling on digital accessibility. Access resources for further learning on universal design and accessibility in education. Who Should Attend Administration Faculty Members Online Learning Professionals Tutoring Student Services/Affairs, including Disability Services IT Technology Support Assistive Technology Specialists Any educator interested in learning more about accessible online learning design