At NC State, education is for everyone. In an increasingly digital world, this means making our digital environments, resources and communications accessible to all members of our community. Digital accessibility isn’t just a compliance checkbox. It’s a fundamental commitment to providing the best possible experience for every individual.
That’s why we’re launching Learn It, Audit It, Improve It — a comprehensive campuswide initiative to elevate our digital accessibility standards. The goal is to empower everyone at NC State to help create an accessible digital landscape and meet new federal accessibility standards by April 24, 2026.
Step 1: 📚 Learn It
Understanding Digital Accessibility
The first step towards an accessible future is knowledge. From emails to course materials, we create digital content every day. But do we all understand the barriers that may arise when users of screen readers or alternative input devices or those with cognitive differences interact with your content?
During step 1, review training and resources to better understand the core principles of digital accessibility. To start, we have two fundamental trainings to learn what digital accessibility is, why it’s important and to understand common accessibility barriers.
Key trainings:
- Understanding Digital Accessibility: Your Legal Responsibility at NC State
- Digital Accessibility Basics
Step 2: 🔍 Audit It
Reviewing Our Digital Landscape
Once you understand the principles, it’s time to put that knowledge into action by examining your current digital presence.
During step 2, inventory and audit the digital content you create, manage or purchase and then critically review for accessibility. This includes:
- Course Materials: Syllabi, lecture notes, slides, PDFs, videos and online assignments
- Websites: Webpages, news articles, forms and informational documents
- Communications: Emails, newsletters and social media content
- Software and Tools: Ensuring any third-party tools are accessible
An audit doesn’t have to be daunting. It’s about systematically checking your digital content against established guidelines.
Tools:
Tool Highlight: There are many ways to inventory and audit your content. You can define a system that works for you to keep track of your digital assets and check them for accessibility. The Digital Accessibility Asset Inventory above is one way to approach this and can be modified to suit your specific needs.
Step 3: 💪 Improve It
Implementing WCAG 2.1 AA Standards
Now that you’ve inventoried and audited your digital content, you’re ready to make concrete improvements.
During step 3, put your audit into action by remediating identified issues and creating new content with accessibility built in. Our target standard is WCAG 2.1 Level AA.
Our Collective Commitment
Digital accessibility is an ongoing journey, not a destination. By participating in this initiative, you are playing a vital role in creating digital environments where every member of our community can fully participate.
For more information, resources and to find upcoming training sessions, visit the campaign webpage or contact Rebecca Sitton, university digital accessibility coordinator.
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