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Module 1, Lesson 5: The legal obligation
In the previous lessons, we've learned how important it is to try and minimize barriers for students with disabilities when accessing online content. As community college faculty and staff, we can all agree that equal access to education is of the utmost importance to fulfilling DVC's mission.
In addition to this shared belief, however, are several laws and directives that require us as a college community to provide accessible content:
Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973
Requires that Federal agencies' electronic and information technology is accessible to people with disabilities, including employees and members of the public.
Full text of Section 508 standards
California Senate Bill 105 (September 2002)
"…state governmental entities…either indirectly or through the use of state funds by other entities, shall comply with the accessibility requirements of Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973…"
Title II of The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990
Requires that state and local governments give people with disabilities "an equal opportunity to benefit from all of their programs, services, and activities (e.g., public education, employment, transportation, recreation, health care, social services, courts, voting, and town meetings)."
In recent years, many postsecondary institutions have been involved in litigation for not adhering to the laws described above. Not only is it in our best interest as citizens to make our online content accessible, it is in our best interest as an institution.
Congratulations!
You have now completed Module 1: Defining Online Accessibility and Why It's Important.
Next: Module 2: Accessible Word 2016 Documents (PC and Mac)
Back to the Online Accessibility at DVC homepage