Guides

Taft College's websites, course content, and publicized materials must be accessible and in compliance with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 A/AA standards. In doing so, it is important to read through the various guides on how to create accessible forms, documents, communication methods, and other materials. All materials that are not currently accessible must be revised to be accessible and from that point forward, Taft College should only publically release accessible content.

In order to create an inclusive environment to students with disabilities, all Taft college faculty and staff should learn WCAG standards and how to use WCAG concepts to create accessible content.

All content creators, instructors, and developers are responsible for the content they create. Together, we can make Taft College a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive institution for faculty, staff, and students.

WCAG Overview

The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) is a set of recommendations for creating accessible web content. By implementing WCAG into Taft College's day to day curations, our content will be accessible to students, faculty, or staff that may have motor, auditory, visual, or cognitive impairments.

WCAG divides their recommendations into four main principles: percievable, operable, understandable, and robust. This is also known as POUR.

  • Perceivable: focuses on text alternatives, time-based media, adaptability of content, and distinguishability of content.
  • Operable: addresses keyboard functionality, timed content, navigation, and content that triggers seizures.
  • Understandable: emphasizes readability, predictability, and input assistance for users.
  • Robust: aims to maximize compatibility with assistive technologies.

As of April 2024, Taft College is legally required under the Department of Justice to follow WCAG 2.1 A and AA standards which includes WCAG 2.0 A and AA standards. WCAG 2.2 A and AA standards are not required (yet). AAA standards go above and beyond what is expected of Taft College employees to follow, however the efforts are extremely appreciated because it gives our students the best experience! Taft College must be in compliance with this ruling by April 26th, 2027. For more information on this, please read ADA Title II Accessibility Rule.