Assistive Technology Resource Center What is Inclusive & Accessible Electronic Content?
Electronic content includes any type of digital information or course materials that are made available electronically, including PDF files, Word documents, PowerPoint presentations, websites, forms, online applications, Canvas courses and videos. It can even include digital podiums, signs, and interactive maps.
When content is designed to be inclusive and accessible, Assistive Technology can interact with it. For example, if the text in a PDF is searchable, then technology can read it and the document is inclusive for a variety of needs. Unfortunately, many PDFs are scanned as images, so a computer does not recognize that there is text within the document. This means that AT – or any other software – cannot read the text, making the file inaccessible.
Testimonial
Thank you [ATRC], you are such a great resource for me and the department on areas supporting accessibility! It has been reassuring to know I can go to you for consultation.
Resources Electronic Accessibility
Electronic Accessibility Tutorials
The Accessibility By Design website includes step-by-step tutorials on how to make electronic content inclusive:
Inclusive Design and Electronic Accessibility Consultation
The ATRC consults with CSU departments and units to:
- Create accessible course materials and E-textbooks
- Create an inclusive online course
- Create inclusive electronic materials and processes
- Create accessible websites
- Test websites, applications, and online course materials for accessibility
- Procure / purchase with accessibility in mind (New Technology Evaluation)
- Consider Ergonomics, Usability & Accessibility of Computing and Technology Environments
- Implement Assistive Technology in the classroom
- Implement Assistive Technology in the office environment
To learn more about accessibility and inclusive design of electronic information, please see our Accessibility By Design website.
Ergonomic Consultation
CSU faculty and staff who are experiencing ergonomic related pain or injury should contact CSU’s Risk Management Ergonomics Program for a comprehensive evaluation. Risk Management may refer you to the ATRC. The ATRC consults with staff, faculty, and departments regarding ergonomics and injury prevention. ATRC can:
- Perform work site evaluations
- Recommend procedures and equipment to reduce the risk for cumulative trauma disorder
- Identify ergonomic equipment and positioning aids
Learn more about factors that contribute to ergonomic injuries and preventative measures specific to computer use in our Office Ergonomics Checklist.
