Live 8:30 am - 9:30 am

(TCH) Does it Really Matter?: An Honest Conversation and
Practical Approach to ADA Compliance
- Dr. Melissa Deroche
- Dr. Scott January
- Dr. Shannon Stoker

Abstract: Advances in technology have shifted the landscape of higher education by providing increased opportunities for some, while simultaneously creating barriers for others, particularly people with disabilities (PWD). Adoption of Universal design principles and practices can not only help offset potential digital access barriers encountered by PWD and those with diverse learning needs in higher education environments, but it can subsequently reduce legal complaints based on violations of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Universal design is a proactive approach applied to products and environments that reduces the need to retrofit digital materials, platforms, and websites on an individual basis. Join faculty and staff in an open and honest conversation regarding the need for Universal Design in higher education. Presenters will use universal design as a conceptual framework to discuss its historical underpinnings, its principles and practices, and its applicability to digital technologies used in post-secondary institutions. Practical and simple techniques and tools for creating a more digitally accessible and inclusive environment will be demonstrated using PC software applications and the Canvas Learning Management System. All Tarleton faculty, staff, and administrators can benefit from learning about universal design, digital accessibility, and inclusive practices.

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Password: 5953

Presenters

Dr. Melissa Deroche

Dr. Melissa Deroche has expertise in ADA compliance and has presented on the topic at university, state, regional, and national conferences; she has created and trained faculty on digital accessibility practices, and has collaboratively worked with the first presenter to create guidelines for selecting course textbooks.

Dr. Scott January

Dr. January is an Instructional Designer for the Center of Educational Excellence supporting the College of Business and the College of Science and Math. Scott successfully defended his doctorate on February 14, 2023, and will graduate from Abilene Christian University in Learning Technologies in May.

Dr. Shannon Stoker

Dr. Stoker is an Instructional Designer at Tarleton State University working primarily with the College of Health Sciences. Prior to entering the world of higher education, Dr. Stoker worked in K-12 as both a teacher and administrator for over 23 years.

Live 8:30 am - 9:30 am

(TCH) Does it Really Matter?: An Honest Conversation and Practical Approach to ADA Compliance

Live Presentation Link

Presenters

Recording

(TCH) Does it Really Matter?: An Honest Conversation and
Practical Approach to ADA Compliance