Accessibility in the News—07/16/16
In this issue of Accessibility in the News (AITN), higher education institutions mull over accessible online learning. informing web accessibility standards while also advocating for embracing a broader range of online course dynamics. Meanwhile, the Bank of England is introducing accessible, tactile bank notes for those with visual impairments—adding to other initiatives enabling accessible banking.
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ADA Web Accessibility
7/16 | Source: Inside Higher ED
EDUCAUSE has sent out a request that members fill out a DOJ survey seeking conceptual thoughts (not formal notice and comment) on the implementation of standards for web accessibility under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Such development has been expected for some time. W3C 2.0 AA standards apply under Title I of the ADA, which affects the federal government. The Department of Justice is making its way now through the subsequent Titles which affect higher education, both public and private…
Learning Out Loud: Make Online Courses Meaningful and Accessible
7/16 | Source: EdSurge
Developing critical listening and speaking skills is an essential element of a student’s higher-education experience. However, verbally presenting one’s ideas and listening to contributions made by student peers are not typical experiences for online students, as most activities in online classes consist of reading and writing. As online course offerings increase, institutions have an obligation to ensure faculty are empowered to teach with tools that enable students to learn out loud. These tools and the content created with them must be accessible to all learners, including those who are hard of hearing and have vision impairments…
Between the lines: Banks in Lead on Accessibility
7/17 | Source: The Scotsman
Last month, the Bank of England revealed the imminent introduction of its accessible bank notes, which incorporate tactile features to allow blind and partially sighted people to distinguish between denominations – developed with advice from RNIB.
A welcome introduction, considering the UK’s blind and partially sighted population stands at two million, a number forecast to nearly double by 2050. In general, while there is a greater need for products and services to be accessible, and inclusive, few companies are properly investing in adapting their offerings…
To receive this “Accessibility in the News” curation via email, please send a subscription request to [email protected]. Each issue, we bring you accessibility news stories curated from around the web. Topics vary, but generally focus on digital accessibility standards and implementation, accessibility compliance and accessibility litigation, and other online access issues.
Additional Accessibility Information
Digital Accessibility Digest
One of our three industry blogs, Microassist’s Digital Accessibility Digest is the “umbrella” for much of our accessibility content. It features commentary, guidance, curated news, and event information. Accessibility in the News is a regular feature of the Digital Accessibility Digest.
Microassist Accessibility Services
Outlining a host of accessibility-related services, Microassist Accessibility Services: Barrier-Free Digital Development, provides background on Microassist expertise and the various offerings available for digital content and platforms. Services cover accessible elearning, website, and application development, audit and remediation services, and accessibility testing across various formats. Content is available online and as an accessible PDF for printing.
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