The landing page for Accessibility Learning Circles
Recognizing the growing importance of digital accessibility and the need for continuous learning in this domain, UFIT Web Services and Training came together with the shared goal to establish a platform where individuals could enhance their understanding and implementation of accessibility principles. Our teams leverage a platform called Siteimprove to check our websites for accessibility. While we aimed to teach general accessibility concepts, we also wanted to show others how they could use Siteimprove to scan and improve their own websites.
The Accessibility Learning Circles were designed as biweekly sessions focused on various aspects of digital accessibility. Each semester, we centered our discussions around a specific course from Siteimprove Frontier, a comprehensive platform for accessibility education. For example, our most recent course in Fall 2023, "Accessibility Fundamentals for the Web," was comprised of three concise modules that participants could complete at their own pace before our scheduled meetings.
The slide deck designed for the workshops
Peer Learning Community: We fostered a supportive atmosphere where participants could engage in collaborative learning and exchange experiences and insights.
Structured Curriculum: The curated curriculum provided a systematic approach to learning, covering essential topics such as writing alt text, using screen readers, and ensuring color contrast compliance.
Interactive Sessions: Zoom meetings were not merely lectures but interactive sessions on Figjam where attendees actively participated in discussions, activities, and practical exercises to reinforce their understanding.
Guest Speaker Engagement: To enrich the learning experience, we invited guest speakers who shared their expertise and offered valuable insights on accessibility best practices.
The Figjam board we used to facilitate the interactive moments during the series
The launch of Accessibility Learning Circles garnered significant interest and participation from faculty and staff across various departments. Participants reported enhanced confidence in their ability to create accessible digital content, as well as a deeper understanding of the importance of inclusive design principles. Furthermore, the inclusive nature of the circles fostered a sense of belonging and collaboration within the organization.
We received feedback from participants that stated that their favorite parts of the series were "getting a chance to practice implementing accessibility tips" and "connecting with other UF employees who are also interested in increasing accessibility online at UF."
Building on the success of the initial rollout, we plan to expand the scope of Accessibility Learning Circles by introducing advanced topics, exploring additional learning resources, and extending participation opportunities to a wider audience. Additionally, we aim to establish partnerships with external organizations to further promote accessibility awareness and advocacy.
The implementation of Accessibility Learning Circles has proven to be a pivotal step towards fostering a culture of accessibility and inclusivity within our organization. By providing a platform for continuous learning and skill development, we are not only equipping individuals with the tools to create more accessible digital experiences but also championing diversity and inclusion in the digital realm.
