CUNY Digital Accessibility Initiative
We’re excited to announce the launch of the CUNY Digital Accessibility Initiative, a university-wide effort to build digital accessibility knowledge and skills across CUNY. As part of this initiative, we’re introducing a new self-paced Brightspace course for faculty and staff titled “Designing for All: Digital Accessibility in Practice.â€Ìý
Participation is optional, but whether you’re just getting started with accessibility or looking to strengthen your existing skills, the Designing for All course provides practical, hands-on guidance you can apply immediately to your teaching and everyday work.Ìý
What you’ll find in the courseÌý
- Short, self-paced modules with practical strategies for creating accessible:Ìý
- Microsoft Word documentsÌý
- PowerPoint presentationsÌý
- Excel spreadsheetsÌý
- Brightspace coursesÌý
- Alt text for imagesÌý
- PDFsÌý
- “Apply It Now” activities to reinforce each topicÌý
- A discussion board to post questions for helpÌý
- Opportunities to ask questions in weekly Ask Me Anything (AMA) sessions over ZoomÌý
Why this mattersÌý
Accessible digital content helps ensure that all members of the CUNY community – including people with disabilities – can access information and participate fully.Ìý
It also improves usability for everyone by making materials easier to read, navigate, and understand.Ìý
As CUNY continues preparing for evolving accessibility requirements, these practical skills will help support inclusive teaching and communication across the university.Ìý
Getting startedÌý
To enroll, visit: in Brightspace and if prompted, log in with your CUNY Login account.Ìý Alternatively, all CUNY employees can request access to this free professional development opportunity through Brightspace from their campus LMS Administrator.Ìý
Questions?Ìý
°ä´Ç²Ô³Ù²¹³¦³Ù Brightspace@qc.cuny.eduÌý
We look forward to supporting you as you build accessibility skills that benefit every learner.Ìý
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