Accessibility & Equity Audits

Higher education institutions face increasing pressure to provide inclusive learning experiences, yet many struggle with identifying and addressing accessibility barriers in their courses. Non-compliant content creates legal vulnerabilities, while poorly designed courses inadvertently create equity gaps for diverse learners. Without systematic evaluation, issues remain hidden until they become critical problems.

The CalibrEd Approach: I provide comprehensive accessibility and equity audits that go beyond basic compliance checklists. By combining WCAG standards with Universal Design for Learning principles, my evaluations identify both technical barriers and pedagogical inequities. Each audit delivers actionable recommendations that help you close equity gaps, meet accessibility standards, and create truly inclusive learning experiences.

Your Accessibility & Equity Audit Includes:

Comprehensive Evaluation

Technical accessibility analysis against WCAG 2.1 AA standards
Equity assessment using UDL and inclusive design frameworks
Course navigation and structure usability testing
Learning technology compatibility review

Detailed Documentation

Prioritized issues with severity ratings and impact assessment
Evidence-based recommendations with specific solutions
Visual documentation of identified barriers
Compliance status reporting for accreditation needs

Implementation Resources

Remediation guidance for identified issues
Faculty-friendly improvement strategies
Resource recommendations for complex challenges
Follow-up consulting during implementation

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Available as single course audits, program-wide evaluations, or institutional accessibility programs.

Benefits

Reduced legal and compliance risks
Improved learning experiences for all students
Measurable increases in student engagement
Higher completion rates for diverse learners
Defensible documentation for accreditors
Proactive approach to accessibility challenges
Enhanced institutional reputation for inclusion
Streamlined path to ongoing accessibility maintenance

Frequently Asked Questions

What standards do you use for accessibility evaluation?

My audits incorporate WCAG 2.1 AA standards as the technical foundation, but extend beyond checklist compliance to include Universal Design for Learning principles and inclusive design practices. This comprehensive approach ensures courses are not just technically accessible but genuinely equitable for diverse learners.

How do you differentiate between accessibility and equity issues?

Accessibility issues typically involve technical barriers that prevent access for users with disabilities (missing alt text, poor color contrast, etc.). Equity issues are broader pedagogical barriers that may disadvantage certain groups of students based on learning preferences, cultural backgrounds, or contextual factors. My audits address both to create truly inclusive learning environments.

What's your approach to faculty resistance around accessibility changes?

I focus on the pedagogical benefits of accessibility rather than just compliance requirements. By demonstrating how accessible design improves learning for all students, not just those with documented disabilities, faculty see these changes as enhancements to teaching effectiveness rather than administrative burdens.

How quickly can you conduct an audit?

Individual course audits typically take 1-2 weeks, while program-level evaluations may require 4-6 weeks, depending on scope. I prioritize findings so you can address the most critical issues immediately while developing a longer-term plan for comprehensive improvements.