The Accessibility Gap: Why Faculty Struggle and How Institutions Can Help
Stronger government regulations and international accessibility standards are reshaping higher education worldwide, but the true test of inclusion and equity lies in the classroom. The choices faculty make about course materials, assignments, and digital learning environments determine whether students can fully, easily, and equitably participate. Findings from our 2025 Anthology Faculty Survey reveal that while instructors care deeply about equitable access, many lack the awareness, training, tools, and confidence to deliver it.
Drawing on responses from 2,508 US faculty, this white paper explores these challenges—and, more importantly, outlines practical steps institutions can take to close them. The goal is to move accessibility from a compliance checkbox to a shared culture of inclusion that empowers faculty, supports students, and strengthens institutional success.