Being a Change Agent

Another aspect of faculty and staff roles with designing and teaching accessible courses can include being a change agent in your unique setting. It is great to learn about accessibility basics and accommodations; however, it is equally important to help others understand the importance of this topic. After all, when it comes down to it, we are really talking about social justice and civil rights, which requires leaders and champions to fully realize potential social change. 

Sometimes when the obstacles seem overwhelming, we can have difficulty knowing what to do to make a difference. The first step is to learn as much as you can and ask questions. Do your singular part to make a difference. Once you are comfortable with your role, seek out ways to move the dial in your network. Perhaps you can advocate for local training, start a task force, or create a weekly discussion group. If you are in a role to do more, consider project and campus initiatives that you could implement to make a difference.

The following are examples of what people have done at other campuses.

The first is from Temple University, who has created a campus accessible technology initiative. You don't need to watch the entire presentations, but do explore as much of them as you feel meets your needs. This presentation was part of the SUNY FACT2 Accessibility Summit held in November 2015. There are 3 speakers. First are introductions, then at minute 4:01 is Brent Whiting, Director of Information Technology, followed by Dr. Daniel White, Associate Vice Provost and Director of Digital Education at 25:32. Then at the start of video 2 is Andrew Lessman, JD Associate Director of State Authorization and Compliance.  Each has a different perspective, but they all have worked together to make a difference. 

  Download Transcript Temple Part 1.docx

  Download Transcript Temple Part 2.docx

The next campus initiative is from Niagara County Community College, where Lisa Dubuc received a grant to work on a project to help faculty access their online course accessibility (20:57). 

Download Transcript for NCCC - Lisa Dubuc.docx

Finally, explore some of the best websites on accessibility to see what others have done on their campuses. Portland Community College has created excellent resources, practices, and policies. 

Portland Community College Links to an external site. has created excellent resources, practices, and policies. 

Penn State Links to an external site. created one of the most informative sites that was the result of an early lawsuit. They have become one of the leaders in this area now.