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AT and Accommodations in Higher Ed. Teresa Haven, Ph.D. Accessibility Analyst Northern Arizona University. What I Do. Solicit and search for accessibility barriers Brainstorm and test possible fixes Work with stakeholders to implement fixes
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AT and Accommodations in Higher Ed Teresa Haven, Ph.D. Accessibility Analyst Northern Arizona University
What I Do • Solicit and search for accessibility barriers • Brainstorm and test possible fixes • Work with stakeholders to implement fixes • Work with stakeholders to plan future implementations (reduce barrier creation) • Educate stakeholders in what they can do to create accessible environments • Collaborate across multiple departments
Proactive Model • The new era of accessibility; growth of similar positions nationally • Proactive attention to access in addition to reactive accommodations • Systemic attention as well as individual attention • Use of AT as an accommodation, a testing tool, and a training tool
AT in the Accommodations Process • Interactive Process: request for help or observation of potential need • Education about AT that might serve; choice and implementation • Education on effective use of AT
AT in the Environment • How do systemic changes (OS updates, etc.) affect the AT? • Is the AT being appropriately supported, updated, etc.? • Does the AT interact appropriately with all the other required elements of the environment (other programs, etc.)?
Dynamic Environments • Technology is oftenchanging faster than we might be able to respond • AT companies are challenged with redesign; often months or years behind • End users may not have latest version of AT • How do we create cutting edge environments that are still accessible in all ways (older/slower tech, usable for all users, etc.)?
Institutional Responsibility • Proactive, global approach • Attention to detail across the institution • Broad education; mindset shift • Education that can be targeted and tailored • Environmental model, not “bandage” approach
Contact • Teresa Haven, Ph.D. • Accessibility Analyst • Northern Arizona University • Teresa.Haven@nau.edu