Learn More about Technology Accessibility
Websites and online learning are one component of technology accessibility. Accessibility also includes interoffice emails, software, electronic devices and technology-facilitated interactive content. Faculty and Staff can check documents, spreadsheets, PowerPoints, emails and other electronic content using the Accessibility Checklist available to employees on the Intranet.
The following information is adapted from Texas A&M System EIR Accessibility FAQs:
What are Electronic and Information Resources (EIR)?
Electronic and Information Resources (EIR) are technologies that provide access to information through telecommunications, with a focus on communication technologies (e.g. website content and multimedia).
Texas law defines EIR, in part, as "information technology and any equipment or interconnected system or subsystem of equipment used to create, convert, duplicate, store, or deliver data or information." See the full definition from the Texas Administrative Code (TAC) 213.
What does EIR accessibility mean?
Accessibility means that websites, tools, and technologies are designed and developed so that people with disabilities can use them. More specifically, people with disabilities can perceive, understand, navigate, interact with, and contribute to EIRs. The functional definition of accessibility states that people with disabilities must be provided the opportunity to (1) acquire the same information, (2) engage in the same interactions, (3) enjoy the same services as people without disabilities, with (4) "substantially equivalent ease of use." EIR must be usable to people of all abilities in an equitable manner. This can be achieved by either implementing accessible technologies or via an accommodation that provides an equitable experience.
What is the technical standard for accessibility?
The technical standards for accessibility, as defined by Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, mirror the international Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), Level AA. While WCAG applies to web developer content, its standards have been incorporated in many word processor and content creator applications and their tools.
Who is responsible for providing accessible content?
Accessibility is a shared responsibility, beginning with content authors. Whether it is created in Microsoft Word, Blackboard, or HTML, authors must produce accessible content before it is shared with their communities. When the content is curated from an external source, the author must do their due diligence in selecting accessible content. This can be as simple as finding and citing accessibility support information from the original source.
Who is responsible for supporting accessibility at A&M?
The EIR Accessibility Coordinator is responsible for supporting accessibility within the Texas A&M System (TAMUS). If you have a question regarding accessibility, please contact the appropriate administrator for the technology in question. If the issue cannot be resolved, the appropriate administrator should escalate the concern to the EIR Accessibility Coordinator.
Accessibility at A&M-Victoria
If you locate a section of the A&M-Victoria website that does not meet accessibility standards, please note the URL of the page and contact webmaster@tamuv.edu.
If you have another type of accessibility need at A&M-Victoria, you can email accessibility@tamuv.edu. You can also contact Lawrence Nelson, EIR Accessibility Coordinator.
If you have a concern for technology accessibility at A&M-Victoria that could have a disproportionate impact on persons with disabilities, please report using any of the Equal Opportunity reporting options. The complaint process is also available under the Texas A&M System Anti-Discrimination Policy.
For questions about training resources, contact Human Resources. For questions about the Advisory Committee or Texas A&M System policies to prevent discrimination, contact Hilary Kofron.
Advisory Committee on Technology Accessibility
The Advisory Committee on Technology Accessibility is a volunteer, open-forum group of staff and faculty members. The Committee provides input on campus climate, programs and training materials. Participants can review, test and provide comments on forthcoming tools and training materials. Participants may also lead campus culture change by improving accessibility. Participants help shape implementation of policies that impact the University as a whole.
For questions about the Advisory Committee, please contact Lawrence Nelson.
Training and Resources
- Texas A&M System resources including custom tutorials.
- LinkedIn Learning Accessibility training videos.
- Campus workshops that provide specialized training and can focus on a particular program or software. Contact your School instructional design team for more information.
- Webinars that stream industry experts and allow for on-campus small group discussion. See Intranet or join an Accessibility Committee meeting to learn about available options.
- Intranet resources and Skills on Demand which provides 24/7 self-guided resources targeted to specific programs and functions.
The Accessibility Tier Training Program shares resources with on-campus point persons by department. Employees can learn more by visiting the Accessibility at A&M-Victoria tab on the Intranet.
The Accessibility Tier Training Program provides a plan for foundation knowledge in accessibility. The Program incorporates:
- One hour training overview,
- Self-guided skills training,
- Timely webinars,
- State and federal public resources, and
- Introduction to on-campus issues and partners.
The Tier Training Program currently enrolls every Accessibility Point Person. University departments designate Accessibility Point Persons. The Training & Development Department oversees the Program. For more information on training workshops.
Policies and Resources
For additional information for faculty and students including accommodations-related services, visit Disability Services website.
For concerns about discrimination, review the Texas A&M University-Victoria Anti-Discrimination Policy (or see Anti-Discrimination Policy HTML version). For questions or concerns about discrimination or the policy, contact Hilary Kofron.
For additional policy language on technology accessibility, review the Texas A&M System Electronic and Information Resources Accessibility Policy.