Accessible Digital Content - University of Maine System

Description

Learners demonstrate a progression from foundational knowledge of digital accessibility standards to real-world application in creating, auditing, and remediating digital content in alignment with Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) across various content types.

At Level 1, learners gain a foundational understanding of digital accessibility principles, legal requirements, and practical techniques for creating inclusive digital content. The training modules require approximately 10 hours to complete.

At Level 2, learners develop practical skills in applying digital accessibility standards to create and remediate content through hands-on practice. The training includes approximately 10 hours of workshops, guided exercises, and independent practice on implementing WCAG standards across various content types.

At Level 3, learners apply digital accessibility skills in a professional context, conducting an accessibility audit, making necessary improvements, and documenting their process. Learners reflect on their skill development and experiences throughout the applied learning project, identifying areas of growth and strategies for ongoing improvement in digital accessibility practices. Completion time for the Level 3 project experience varies based on the particulars of each learner’s real-world application.

Throughout the pathway, learners are assessed using knowledge-based quizzes, assignment rubrics, documentation of processes, and self-reflection activities. This micro-credential was developed by subject-matter experts at the University of Maine at Augusta (UMA) and the University of Southern Maine (USM).

Who is eligible to register?

Anyone is eligible to register. This course is for anyone who creates, updates, or posts digital content, including webpages, digital documents, videos, podcasts, online course material, social media posts, and more. It does not cover theme design, back-end website development, or application programming, and therefore is not intended for website or application developers or designers working at the platform or code level.