In a previous blog post on accessibility, we explored the ways in which the Lumen team identifies, prioritizes, and delivers on accessibility improvements in our content and our platforms. While our team is constantly learning and expanding on our knowledge of accessible and inclusive practices, we also appreciate the expertise of leaders in the field. To that end, in the spring of 2020, we began an extensive search to find a third-party partner that could help us maximize our mission of unprecedented learning for all students.
As part of our commitment, we engaged with Perkins Access, a division of Perkins School for the Blind, to ensure that our platforms conform to the World Wide Web Consortium’s Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (W3C WCAG) Version 2.1 Level AA requirements to the maximum extent possible. These guidelines explain how to make web content more accessible for people with disabilities.
We’re thrilled to share that Perkins Access has been contracted to provide user and expert reviews, inclusive design reviews, ongoing accessibility support, and expert standards guidance.
Perkins Access has brought a holistic approach to partnering with us. Through the initial review of our learning platforms, Waymaker and OHM, the Perkins team worked to share insights and opportunities to improve the accessibility of our products. We were especially thrilled to work with their experts in reviewing the student AND instructor experience to support success for teaching and learning across our offerings.
Jennifer Sagalyn, Director of Strategic Partnerships at Perkins Access, shares, “As part of Perkins School for the Blind, it’s meaningful when our partners have missions that align with ours. Lumen is committed to providing quality education to all learners, regardless of ability. And we’re committed to helping Lumen make their digital experiences as accessible and inclusive as possible. That’s what makes our partnership a success.”
We’re looking forward to our partnership with Perkins Access and providing more accessible learning experiences to all students.
By: Anika Ledlow (Assistant Course Product Manager) & Jeanette Koskinas (VP, Product)