UIC Advances Digital Accessibility with Hands-On Training in Assistive Technology and Mobile Tools
Introduction
On April 2, 2026, the UIC Digital Accessibility team hosted a hybrid training session focused on Assistive Technology and Mobile Accessibility, drawing more than 40 participants both in person and online. The interactive workshop provided attendees with practical, hands-on experience in evaluating digital accessibility using built-in tools available on macOS and Windows platforms.
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The session introduced participants to quick and effective methods for assessing accessibility, emphasizing real-world application. Attendees explored key techniques such as keyboard-only navigation, the use of screen readers like NVDA and VoiceOver, and mobile accessibility features. These tools enabled participants to better understand how users with disabilities interact with digital content and identify potential barriers.
This initiative comes as UIC prepares for the upcoming ADA Title II compliance deadline for public-facing digital content. Beyond regulatory requirements, the training reflects the institution’s broader commitment to equity, inclusion, and student success. Ensuring accessible design allows all users, regardless of ability, to fully engage with digital materials.
Throughout the session, participants developed practical skills, including manually evaluating color contrast, navigating websites without a mouse, and assessing how content is interpreted by screen readers. They also examined mobile user experiences and learned to identify common accessibility challenges related to structure and navigation.
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It was a great experience to connect with the accessibility community in person and to experience Lucy Greco’s awesome presentation live. Her presentation was super engaging, informative and fun.
| Division of Specialized Care for Children
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A central message of the training was the importance of integrating accessibility early in the content creation process. Rather than treating it as a final step, participants were encouraged to embed accessibility checks into their regular workflows, making improvements more efficient and sustainable.
To support ongoing efforts, attendees were advised to use built-in accessibility tools on their devices, along with external resources such as contrast-checking applications, to ensure compliance with established standards. They were also encouraged to conduct regular accessibility reviews of existing materials and address issues incrementally.
UIC continues to offer support through its Digital Accessibility Resource Hub, which provides guidance, tools, and policy information. Faculty and staff can also contact the Digital Accessibility team directly for assistance. As digital accessibility becomes an increasingly critical component of higher education, initiatives like this training play a key role in equipping the UIC community with the knowledge and tools needed to create inclusive digital experiences.
Please feel free to reach out to the Digital Accessibility team with any questions at accessibility@uic.edu.