The Chair of Digital Divide and Functional Diversity (DicaTIC) of the Polytechnic University of València, financed by the Department of Innovation, Industry, Commerce and Tourism of the Generalitat Valenciana, has taken another step in its work for universal digital accessibility with the launch of three guides and a MOOC course (Massive Online Open Courses), with twenty chapters.

These materials contain information, advice and practical tools that allow anyone to acquire basic knowledge to make their documents, web pages and social networks, both private and professional, more accessible, without the need for technical knowledge. In all cases, the conditions and requirements derived from the different types of disabilities have been taken into account. They can be downloaded, free of charge, on the Chair’s website.

To achieve the best practical result, the research and development work of the guides and MOOCs have been carried out with the collaboration of professionals with extensive experience, as well as with the direct involvement of organizations that work with people. with disabilities in the Valencian Community and with the ONCE Foundation.

“The objective of this project is not only to develop materials, but to advance the sensitization and awareness of all people, organizations and professionals regarding universal accessibility. Let them know that, with the integration of some very simple practices and tools and, for the most part, accessible directly and free of charge, we can get communications that do not exclude anyone, with and without disabilities. In an increasingly digitalized society and economy, this principle is basic to guarantee real and effective equality for all people , in all areas of your life,” emphasizes Chele Esteve, director of the DicaTIC Chair, which has the support of the Vice-Rector’s Office for Art, Science, Technology and Society of the UPV.

“The collection of materials prepared by the Chair of Digital Divide and Functional Diversity of the UPV responds to the main objectives of the Network of Chairs of the Digital Divide Observatory of the Generalitat: Generate knowledge, raise awareness, raise awareness and promote concrete actions to move towards the goal of universal digital accessibility,” says Juan José Cortés, general director of Innovation of the Department of Innovation, Industry, Commerce and Tourism, which has financed these initiatives.

The ‘Basic guide to web accessibility’, the ‘Basic guide to creating accessible documents’ and the ‘Basic guide to creating accessible content on social networks’ have been validated by a panel of experts who are part of nine associations and federations integrated into the Spanish Committee of Representatives of People with Disabilities of the Valencian Community (CERMI CV).

In addition to practical advice and tools, they provide context on the global situation in these matters, regulations, obligations, challenges and opportunities posed by new technologies and advances in areas such as artificial intelligence.

Source: DISCAPNET