About the Digital Accessibility Team

The Digital Accessibility team ensures digital accessibility for all university web content and apps by continually improving the user experience and applying relevant accessibility standards aligning with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG 2.1 AA). The team provides consultations and training for employees to make course content, websites, apps, and university digital media accessible. The team also oversees the Digital Accessibility Toolkit for enabling accessibility-minded practices.

Primary Campus System Support

  • Digital Accessibility Policy oversight and compliance.
  • Digital Accessibility Toolkit development, management and support.
  • Consultation for creation of digitally accessible course content and campus resources.
  • Enterprise level software audits for university purchasing.
  • Inclusion on research and grants pertaining to advancing digital accessibility efforts.

What is Digital Accessibility?

When most organizations think of “accessibility,” they think of wheelchair ramps and parking spaces. However, digital experiences are just as important as physical experiences.

Digital accessibility is the equal access to the information and functionality of a website or any type of digital content. Inclusive digital access is a civil right, just as access to education is a civil right. The state of Iowa has a rich history of progressive civil rights. It has often led the nation in developing inclusive legislation and educational practices.

12.7% of students at ISU self-report as having one or more disabilities.

2017 Campus Climate Survey, Iowa State University

Accessibility Statement

Iowa State University follows in the tradition of being progressive in education, science and technology. Iowa State University takes the following measures to ensure accessibility:

  • Accessibility is part of our internal policies.
  • Accessibility is integrated into our procurement practices.
  • An accessibility officer or official has been appointed.
  • Continual accessibility training is provided for employees.
  • We include people with disabilities in our user testing processes.

Current accessibility standard: WCAG 2.1 level AA

Inclusion as a Shared Responsibility

From web designers and web developers to website builders and content editors, everyone is responsible for making the web and digital content accessible for all. In fact, digital accessibility improves the experience for all users, including users with disabilities.

Learn more about the digital accessibility initiatives supported by Iowa State University by reviewing the digital accessibility road map and policy. Find easy-to-use accessibility tools and best practices within the Digital Accessibility Toolkit or ISU Service Portal.