All students have the right to access education, and educational institutions are responsible for ensuring they’re providing an inclusive and supportive learning environment. Alternative learning options and online learning platforms have come under increased scrutiny as more and more universities digitize their offerings due to quarantine and self-isolation restrictions. Additionally, public websites must be available to any type of visitor, faculty and staff must access portals and applications, the pandemic increased dependency on technology and congress is debating changes to the ADA for online accessibility. Ensuring digital accessibility is not just good for compliance but it improves usability for everyone by providing an intuitive, efficient and productive experience. This EdTalk focused on the state of accessibility, best practices, practical approaches and affordable solutions.

About the Panelists:

Dr. Nicholas C. Laudato is an information and instructional technology professional specializing in strategic and tactical IT and academic technology planning. During his 40+ year career at the University of Pittsburgh, Dr. Laudato served as Director of Information Systems at the Bradford campus, Associate Director of the University External Studies Program and the Center for Instructional Development and Distance Education, and Project Director and Manager of User Support Services within the centralized Computing and Information Services.

George Heake has found a new and permanent home with Accessible Web, specializing in accessibility auditing and compliance. George’s career has come full circle from his life-changing experience, working with an incredible family of disability activists and advocates at the Institute on Disabilities (UCEDD) at Temple University, Philadelphia. Pa. He is also is still very active in the disaster and humanitarian relief efforts as it relates to accessibility, people with disabilities and people with functional access needs. He is currently an accessibility analyst with Missing Maps Project, a joint project of the American/International Red Cross and Doctor’s without Borders.