At Rice University, we are committed to fostering an inclusive digital environment that supports the needs of everyone—faculty, students, staff, and the wider community. Together, we can create a digital experience that is accessible, equitable, and empowering for all. Here are some ways that you can engage with digital accessibility depending on where you are within the University.
Faculty
As an educator, you profoundly impact shaping an inclusive learning environment. By making course materials and digital resources accessible, you ensure that every student, regardless of their abilities, has an equal opportunity to succeed.
What You Can Do:
- Create Accessible Course Materials: Use accessibility-friendly formats for syllabi, slides, PDFs, and videos. Tools like Ally or Adobe Acrobat can help.
- Caption Multimedia Content: Ensure all videos and audio recordings include accurate captions or transcripts.
- Utilize Accessibility Resources: Partner with Rice’s accessibility team to review your course materials and apply best practices.
- Encourage Inclusive Communication: Use clear and simple language in emails, announcements, and assignments.
Resources for Faculty:
- Teaching for Inclusion
- Getting Familiar with Accessibility in Canvas
- Supporting Disability & Neurodiversity
- Participate in Training
Students
As a student, your feedback and collaboration are essential in creating an accessible campus. Whether you're using digital tools, submitting projects, or engaging with course content, your awareness and actions can help foster an inclusive environment.
What You Can Do:
- Report Barriers: If you encounter an accessibility challenge, notify your professor and if it is a digital or technology issue Report a Digital Accessibility Issue immediately.
- Create Accessible Work: Ensure your presentations, documents, and group projects follow accessibility guidelines, like using readable fonts and alternative text for images.
- Be an Ally: Support classmates with accessibility needs by encouraging inclusive group dynamics and being mindful of shared materials.
Resources for Students:
- Report a Digital Accessibility Issue
- Create Accessible Documents
- Supporting Disability & Neurodiversity
- Participate in Training
Staff
As staff members, you play a vital role in maintaining accessible digital systems and communications that uphold Rice’s commitment to inclusivity. Whether in marketing, administration, IT, or event planning, your efforts directly contribute to a welcoming environment for all.
What You Can Do:
- Design Accessible Communications: Ensure emails, social media posts, and event materials are readable by screen readers and visually clear.
- Update Digital Content: Work with the Digital Accessibility team to ensure software, websites, and applications meet accessibility standards.
- Host Inclusive Events: Provide accessible registration forms, caption live events, and offer alternative formats for materials.
- Participate in Training: Attend Rice’s digital accessibility workshops to enhance your knowledge and skills.
Resources for Staff:
- Create Accessible Documents
- Supporting Disability & Neurodiversity
- Hosting Accessible Meetings & Events
- Creating Accessible Communications
- Participate in Training