WCAG Unwrapped: A People’s Guide to Accessible Digital Experiences

Scheduled at 11:15 am in Mattie Silks on Thursday, November 14.

#39820

Speaker(s)

  • David Dauber, Nelnet
  • Robin Eckelberry, , Nelnet

Session Details

  • Length of Session: 1-hr
  • Format: Interactive/Discussion
  • Expertise Level: All Levels
  • Type of session: General Conference

Summary

This interactive training aims to provide participants with a fundamental understanding of the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) through a person-first approach. By exploring real-life scenarios and human experiences, participants will learn how to apply WCAG principles to create accessible digital experiences.

Abstract

Are you a non-technical person diving into the technical space of WCAG? Do you have rich experiences working alongside students with disabilities, but digital accessibility is frightening? Or, are you a web developer who would like to get in touch with the human experiences that contribute to the guidelines? Wherever you fall in your knowledge of human interaction with technology, this discussion is meant for you.

In this engaging and interactive session, participants will delve into the world of digital accessibility through three distinct user scenarios. Each scenario will highlight the barriers faced by individuals with different disabilities and how these challenges can be addressed using the WCAG principles of Perceivable, Operable, Understandable, and Robust (POUR).

Through group discussions and brainstorming sessions, participants will have the opportunity to identify unique accessibility challenges and collaborate on developing practical solutions. By the end of the course, attendees will have a deeper understanding of the human aspect of accessibility and how to implement WCAG guidelines effectively.

Keypoints

  1. The human experience must be understood and emphasized in digital accessibility.
  2. WCAG principles can be applied to improve accessibility in different user scenarios.
  3. Actively brainstorming and collaborating can help develop creative and effective accessibility solutions.

Disability Areas

All Areas

Topic Areas

Accessible Course Design, Alternate Format, Assistive Technology, Faculty Development & Support, Teaching about Accessibility in Curriculum, Uncategorized, Web/Media/App Access

Speaker Bio(s)

David Dauber

Meet Dave D., a passionate accessibility (a11y) advocate who has championed accessibility rights from an early age. Being born with Cerebral Palsy and using a wheelchair since childhood, he has overcome numerous physical obstacles to engage in various activities he adores. Through his co-hosting and production of The Gene and Dave Show, he tirelessly promotes an active lifestyle for people with disabilities. Dave's journey has illuminated the vital importance of digital accessibility. He works to ensure that the show's website aligns with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), prioritizing equal access for all audiences. Dave's dedication extends well beyond the show. He actively advocates for accessibility in nonprofit organizations, such as ADAPT and Art Spark. He has worked with the Texas Health & Human Services Civil Rights office, Deque, and currently offers consulting, coaching, and training through Nelnet to corporations of all sizes. His impactful work is a testament to his commitment and a catalyst for positive change. Dave invites everyone into the a11y family with his personal stories, spreading awareness and fostering inclusion. If his mission moves you, don't hesitate to connect with him and join the movement towards a more accessible world.

Robin Eckelberry

Meet Robin E. Robin is a digital accessibility professional who previously worked in disability services in higher education for over 5 years. She has experience in accessibility, assistive technology, ADA accommodations, and occupational therapy in both educational and healthcare settings.