Instructional Materials Accessibility

Cal Poly is committed to a culture of accessibility and inclusive learning environments. This means ensuring that all campus electronic and information technology resources, including digital course materials, are fully accessible to students, including students with disabilities.

This commitment is aligned with the CSU System policy, which is to “… (M)ake information technology resources and services accessible to all CSU students, faculty, staff, and the general public regardless of disability status.” Accessible digital course materials have broad benefits for university students, including:

• Making course materials more robust and flexible to enhance student learning.
• Creating a welcoming learning environment where everyone feels included.
• Empowering students with disabilities to reach their educational goals.

All digital course materials must be fully accessible by April 24, 2026, to comply with Title II of the ADA.

The mandate includes all digital course materials, regardless of mode, format, or digital platform. Examples of accessible practices include captioning videos, adding alt text for images, using proper document structure, creating accessible links, and making all content accessible in the campus LMS and in any other course management system. Accessible digital course materials ensures that every student has equitable access to learning and that Cal Poly meets its legal accessibility obligations.

Resources and Support

The Center for Teaching, Learning, and Technology’s (CTLT) Accessible Learning page provides details and support resources, including a Resource Hub. The CTLT supports faculty in designing and implementing accessible course materials through professional development opportunities, workshops, resources, and individual consultations.