Transforming Accessibility in Higher Education: Leveraging UDOIT for Universal Design at the University of Auckland

In recent years, the University of Auckland has made significant strides in improving the accessibility and consistency of its digital learning environments, particularly through the integration of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles. This improvement correlates with the integration of UDOIT Advantage (UDOIT), a Canvas-integrated tool by Cidi Labs, to audit and enhance the accessibility of online course content as well as increase staff awareness. These efforts align with the University’s broader commitment to equity and inclusion as outlined in the institution’s Disability Action Plan 2022–2025, which prioritises creating consistent and accessible learning experiences for all students.

The University inherited a number of challenges with the transition from a bespoke, legacy LMS to Canvas a decade ago. While Canvas offered new opportunities, the transition process ensured previous inconsistencies in course design and limited awareness of accessibility standards persisted among teaching staff. These inconsistencies were reflected in student feedback and surveys, highlighting the need for more structured and accessible course content.

By utilising UDOIT, the University was able to identify and address key accessibility issues, including inconsistent course structures and inaccessible materials. UDOIT allowed teaching staff to audit their courses against Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG 2.2) and implement changes to meet the baseline standards for accessibility. In parallel, the implementation of institutional quality standards provided a more consistent and navigable structure for all courses, reducing cognitive load for students and ensuring a more seamless learner experience across different faculties.

Key outcomes include improved student satisfaction, enhanced staff capability in creating accessible content, and a university-wide commitment to adhering to UDL principles. As a result, most undergraduate Canvas courses now meet baseline accessibility standards, with a plan for full compliance by 2027. This presentation will provide insights into the University of Auckland’s journey toward a more inclusive learning environment and offer practical recommendations for other institutions aiming to implement similar strategies.