AIL 608: DIVERSITY, INCLUSION, EQUITY, AND ACCESSIBILITY IN INSTRUCTIONAL TECH DESIGN AND IMPLEMENTATION
Course Instructor: Dr. Feiya Luo
Semester: Fall 2024
Introduction and Course Impact
AIL 608 has been a transformative journey, expanding my understanding of how diversity, inclusion, equity, and accessibility (DIEA) must be intentionally embedded in every aspect of instructional technology design. Each module deepened my awareness of how design decisions impact learners with diverse needs, and how inclusive design can serve as a powerful tool for equity and justice in education.
Diverse Perspectives
The course began with opportunities to build community through introductions and shared reflections. Engaging with classmates from different backgrounds allowed me to appreciate various experiences and perspectives. This helped reinforce the idea that inclusive design starts with understanding the people we design for and that diverse user voices must be central to the process.
Analyzing Exclusion and Intersectionality in Design
Early modules invited us to examine faulty designs in technology that fail to account for real-world diversity. These discussions made visible how exclusion can be unintentionally built into systems. The intersectionality graph assignment added depth, helping me see how overlapping identities—such as race, gender, ability, and socioeconomic status—affect how individuals engage with technology. These exercises encouraged me to approach design from a more empathetic and multi-dimensional lens.
Empowering Inclusive Research
Reading and presenting on DIEA-related research sharpened my ability to evaluate how scholarly work can support or undermine equity in instructional technology. Writing my DEI Statement allowed me to reflect on my values and clarify my commitment to culturally responsive and inclusive design. It was a defining moment in recognizing that equity must be both a mindset and a professional standard.
Practical Applications of Accessibility
The accessibility modules were especially practical and eye-opening to me. Creating an accessibility resources portfolio gave me tangible tools I now use to evaluate and improve learning environments. Developing an infographic on barriers and solutions pushed me to think creatively about how to communicate complex issues clearly. Most impactful was conducting an accessibility audit, where I applied WCAG guidelines to assess real-world content—demonstrating that accessibility is an ongoing responsibility, not a one-time task.
ARTIFACTS
Accessibility Audit of Adobe Express
I conducted an accessibility audit of Adobe Express, a creative design platform widely used for developing social media content, flyers, and promotional materials. The objective was to assess how the platform aligns with recognized accessibility standards—particularly those outlined in the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). This involved evaluating the platform’s interface, language settings, navigation features, and inclusiveness of templates. My presentation included a breakdown of accessibility strengths, areas needing improvement, and practical recommendations for enhancing inclusivity.
Skills Developed and Knowledge Gained
Completing this audit sharpened my ability to apply universal design principles in a real-world setting. I gained a deeper understanding of how accessibility features—like screen reader compatibility, keyboard navigation, and color contrast—impact users with disabilities. Critically analyzing Adobe Express also helped me realize that even widely used tools can fall short in inclusive design if accessibility isn’t continuously tested and updated.
This experience taught me how to conduct a structured accessibility review using WCAG standards, and how to communicate findings through clear visuals and practical suggestions. For example, I proposed interface mockups to improve layout, visual contrast, and interactive functionality—skills that are now transferable to future instructional design projects.
Watch the video of the Accessibility Audit of Adobe Express
Accessibility Resources Portfolio
I created an Accessibility Resources Portfolio using Google Sites. The portfolio provides training on accessibility principles, standards, and tools, featuring five curated web resources with summaries and practical applications.
Through this project, I developed skills in researching accessibility tools, organizing instructional content, and designing user-friendly web-based training. It strengthened my understanding of how to support inclusive digital environments and emphasized the importance of ongoing accessibility checks. This assignment showcased how thoughtful resource curation can promote accessible design in practice.
You can view the portfolio here: David Accessibility Resources Portfolio
Click the image below to view my accessibility Portfolio
