A Decade of Evolution: Crafting an Inclusive Accessibility Policy

Scheduled at 1:45 pm in Independence on Wednesday, November 13.

Speaker(s)

• Lucy Greco, Accessibility Evangelist, University of California, Berkeley

Session Details

• Length of Session: 1-hr
• Format: Lecture
• Expertise Level: Beginner
• Type of session: General Conference

Summary

A decade has passed since the University of California implemented its pioneering accessibility policy. Now, we stand on the brink of unveiling its successor—a testament to our commitment to inclusivity, shaped by a decade of insights. Join us to delve into the intricacies of this evolved policy and discover how to weave fresh ideas and standards into the fabric of a successful policy framework. Witness the adaptability of university policy in the dynamic realm of digital accessibility.

Abstract

In 2007, we proposed an unprecedented accessibility policy to our system-wide leadership, only to face rejection. However, perseverance paid off, and in 2013, a significantly revised policy was adopted. Reflecting on its ten-year journey reveals both its strengths and shortcomings. Our experiences have highlighted a common challenge across campuses: the uncertainty of initiating an accessibility policy. Our forthcoming policy addresses this by delineating explicit, actionable steps toward enhanced accessibility, supported by tangible examples and definitive guidelines. This presentation will navigate through our discoveries and the strategies employed in our new policy formulation. The session will dissect the lessons gleaned from our original policy, discussing the necessity for updates and identifying the critical gaps that must be bridged. We will examine the issues encountered in procurement, standardization, and the support of staff and faculty. Furthermore, I will unveil the approaches we’ve taken to rectify these issues in the draft of our new policy, providing clear directives for its implementation. Although the new policy may not be published by the time of this talk, I will share as much information as possible. The discussion will also encompass the diverse team behind this policy and how each member’s expertise contributed to a comprehensive and multifaceted accessibility framework.

Keypoints

1. A common challenge across campuses is the uncertainty of initiating an accessibility policy
2. Lessons gleaned from our original policy and identifying the critical gaps that must be bridged.
3. Unveil the approaches we’ve taken to rectify these issues in the draft of our new policy.

Disability Areas

Cognitive/Learning

Topic Areas

Other, Procurement, Uncategorized

Speaker Bio(s)

Lucy Greco

Lucy is a disabled technologist who has been working in the field of education for 20 years.