Author: Catherine Roy

Accessibility is a slippery notion and can sometimes mean different things to different people (availability, usability, affordability, proximity, etc.). In a way, all these notions are related but they are not equivalent.

The basic course Introduction to Accessibility for Open Smart Cities (OSC101) has 3 modules that provide an introduction to accessibility concepts related to disability in the development and implementation of technology and data initiatives in communities. Themes covered in this course include:

- Engagement - inclusion
- Ensuring accessibility in technology development and procurement
- Privacy issues for people with disabilities
- By the end of this course, you should have an increased awareness of:

1. A better understanding of the barriers faced by people with disabilities.
Introduction: What is the current state of disability in Canada?

2. Avenues for creating meaningful strategies allowing for more effective participation of people with disabilities.
Investigation: What accessibility measures are being implemented in urban contexts?

3. Practical accessibility notions and how they may be applied to the inclusion of people with disabilities in smart city planning and implementation.
Activation: What steps can be taken to make our communities more accessible?

Recommended screen reader: NVDA on desktop