FAQ: New Department of Justice (DOJ) Digital Accessibility Rule
How should course content be handled in terms of accessibility requirements?
Course content must be treated the same as any other web or mobile application content. Any content in Canvas needs to meet WCAG 2.1 AA accessibility standards. This includes learning platforms, digital resources, documents, and media.
Is the new rule applicable to web or mobile applications acquired from third-party vendors?
Yes, the new rule covers all websites and mobile apps a public entity offers or makes accessible, whether directly or via contracts, licenses, or other agreements. Exceptions to the new rule generally do not apply to electronic information and technology being purchased by the institution. We strive to ensure that IT products developed at, purchased by, or used at the universities of Wisconsin are accessible to all faculty, students, and staff, including those with disabilities. To reach this goal, those responsible for making decisions about which products to procure must consider accessibility as one of the criteria for acquisition.
How can I determine if my website or web content complies with WCAG standards?
There are many ways to evaluate the accessibility of websites, web-based applications, and digital content, including automatic website scanning and manual testing.
What is expected of the universities of Wisconsin staff and faculty to meet this standard?
The new rule mandates organization-wide and local initiatives to ensure web content and mobile apps adhere to the technical standards. All web and mobile app content owners, managers, and creators must learn to comply with these standards.
How can I proactively ensure digital accessibility in my work now?
The Universities of Wisconsin offer resources to help make technology accessible to individuals with various disabilities. To learn how to make websites, documents, and videos accessible, please visit the Make it Accessible page.
What are considered “conventional electronic documents”?
The new rule defines conventional electronic documents as web or mobile app content in specific electronic file formats, including PDFs, word processor files, presentation files, and spreadsheet files. Examples include Adobe PDF documents, Microsoft Word documents, Apple Keynote or Microsoft PowerPoint presentations, and Google docs, spreadsheets, and slide decks.