Accessibility
Education has become more digitized, using web-based, video-based, or virtual instruction. It is important to ensure deaf and hard-of-hearing students can access the content on any digital platform. Assistive technology, interpreters, and other types of accommodations can ensure access.
Students and families are encouraged to review classroom materials and technology to determine access and accommodations needed before their IEP meeting or the start of the school year. Teachers, school administrators, and other educational staff should also consider universal design principles before selecting materials or technology for classroom and extracurricular usage.
To learn more about federal statutes and recommendations for access, review the three resources below:
- IDEA, Part C: Section 1474 considers assistive technology, educational media, telecommunications and universal design for students.
- Communications and Video Accessibility Act (CVAA): A federal communications law on increasing access to communications due to emerging technologies, e.g., improved web browser viewing, audio descriptions and hearing aid compatibility.
- Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG): The Web Accessibility Initiative (WAI) provides resources and technical assistance to promote access to the Internet by individuals with disabilities.
