Welcome to week one of UCR's 10-week digital deep-cleaning challenge, which aims to support UCR faculty and staff as we collectively work to implement new digital accessibility standards in response to updates to the Americans with Disabilities Act and UC policy.

Read the letter to campus from Chancellor Hu and Provost Watkins

Just as we might feel overwhelmed by the prospect of cleaning and organizing our home, the prospect of systematically reviewing years of digital content to meet the new accessibility requirements may seem daunting. However, just as physical environments are best maintained through focused, incremental efforts, our digital spaces become more accessible when we address them methodically, one space at a time. For the next 10 weeks, we'll learn how to tidy up our digital spaces "room by room" through a guided process.

Week One: The Toolshed

We’re starting our digital deep-cleaning efforts in the "Toolshed." Before we can tidy up, we need the right gear. This week, we’re asking all faculty and staff to install the Grackle plug-in, explore the Digital Accessibility page, and take a tour of the Learning Hub. 

Tools in the Toolshed

Digital Accessibility Page 

The Digital Accessibility webpage is your go-to resource for information, training, and resources that will help you meet the new accessibility requirements. View the Webpage

Your Accessibility Assistant: Grackle

Grackle is a suite of accessibility add-ons for Google Workspace that scans files for digital accessibility issues, such as missing alt text or incorrect heading structures, and flags items of concern.
Install Grackle

Learning Hub 

Access curated training based on the types of digital content you produce and manage. Be sure to log into SiteImprove with your UCR NetID to access the training materials. 
Explore Training Materials

Faculty Focus 

If you're an instructor, you may be wondering how to approach your Canvas course content and materials created with other instructional technology. The XCITE Center for Teaching and Learning has additional tools for your toolshed, which we encourage you to explore.
View Accessibility Resources for Faculty 
Register for Upcoming Workshops 

Website Wranglers 

If you're an editor, contributor, or owner of a website on the ucr.edu domain, SiteImprove is more than just a training resource. If you do not yet have access to site reports, submit a service request to Campus Web Solutions. 
Learn About SiteImprove for Websites 
Request to Join the Update Meetings

Access barrier? Report digital accessibility issues or request remediation of inaccessible digital content.

Wait—Does This Challenge Apply to Me?

Almost certainly! If you create or share information using a computer, you are a digital content creator.
Under the updated ADA standards, "digital content" includes:

• Documents: Word, Docs, Excel, Sheets, PowerPoint, Slides, PDF... any digital files you've created to share with others
• Emails & Announcements: Messages sent to students or colleagues via G'Mail or other communication channels
• Instructional Materials: Everything inside your Canvas courses—from uploaded readings to quiz instructions
• Social Media: Posts on departmental LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok, etc., accounts
• Websites: All websites on the ucr.edu domain, as well as any websites that appear to represent the university and its faculty or staff (e.g., course, faculty, research websites)
• Web Platforms: University applications (apps), portals, and learning management systems (e.g., Canvas)

In short, if a Highlander needs to read it or click it to participate in UCR life, it counts!