SLCC has created the Digital Accessibility Credential to teach the basic principles for building and remediating digital products to comply with accessibility standards.
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about the Digital Accessibility Credential.

Why do we need a Digital Accessibility Credential at SLCC? 

In April 2024, the Justice Department issued new rules under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) that require public institutions to meet accessibility standards for all digital content. As a public institution, SLCC is committed to ensuring equal access for all students. This credential helps faculty and staff learn the foundations of digital accessibility and how to create accessible content, ensuring compliance with these federal guidelines.

Who should earn the Digital Accessibility Credential? 

Anyone who creates digital content for SLCC should complete this training. This includes faculty, staff, and administrators who work with documents, presentations, PDFs, or other digital materials that students or colleagues may need to access. The fourth module of this training is only required for faculty and staff who work in Canvas. Eventually, anyone who edits a Canvas course will be required to complete all four modules of this training.

What will I learn in the Digital Accessibility Credential course? 

Participants will learn the core principles of digital accessibility and how to apply them to commonly used formats. The training covers:
  • Module 1: Foundations of digital accessibility
  • Module 2: Creating accessible Word and PowerPoint documents
  • Module 3: Editing PDFs for accessibility
  • Module 4: Creating accessible Canvas content
By completing this course, participants will be able to recognize accessibility issues, implement basic fixes, and know when to seek additional support.

How long does it take to complete the Digital Accessibility Credential course? 

Each module takes approximately one hour to complete. Participants can expect to spend around three to four hours total to earn the credential. Adjunct faculty are compensated for four hours of professional development after completing the course. 

What is the format of the Digital Accessibility Credential course? 

The training is fully online and asynchronous, allowing participants to complete the modules at their own pace within the designated time frame. Each module includes instructional content, practical exercises, and a final assessment or project to demonstrate proficiency in digital accessibility.

How do I register for the Digital Accessibility Credential training? 

Faculty and staff can register for the training through SLCC’s training registration system. From the list of courses, look for course code DDAC. Adjunct faculty must have the approval of their associate dean to participate in the course. If you are unsure whether this training is required for your role, check with your department or supervisor.  

I create content in Canvas. Which modules should I complete?

If you only need to improve the accessibility of documents like Word, PowerPoint, and PDFs, the first three modules 1–3 are sufficient. However, if you also create or edit content in Canvas, you are required to complete the fourth module of the course, which includes additional training on accessibility tools in SLCC’s Learning Management System.

What if I need help while taking the training?

If you need assistance, you can reach out to your facilitators at any time for guidance on training content, assessments, or accessibility-related questions.

I’ve been creating digital content for years. Do I still need to complete this training?

Yes. Even if you have experience, accessibility standards and tools evolve over time. This training ensures that all SLCC faculty and staff are aligned with the latest accessibility requirements and best practices.

If I have more questions about the Digital Accessibility Credential, who can I contact?

For more information, reach out to SLCC’s Universal Access team or your training facilitators. You can also check SLCC’s accessibility resources for additional support.