Digital Accessibility at Western

Western is committed to making our digital content and resources accessible to everyone. 

Accessible Web Design

The Western Digital Accessibility website offers accessibility training for content creators, tools for checking and improving accessibility, and personal assistance from accessible technology specialists.

Laptop Loan

Academic Technology & User Services currently provides short-term and long-term laptop loans to students at no charge through the Equipment Loan pool.  Among the long-term loan laptops, ATUS will set aside one laptop with a fully licensed set of accessibility tools including JAWS, J-Say and Dragon Naturally Speaking prior to Fall 2018 quarter.  Long-term laptop loans are available for a full quarter and can be renewed.

Speech to Text Software

Speech to Text Software available in Windows and macOS

​Screen Reader Software

JAWS is popular screen reading software for Windows. It is not free, but it offers excellent support and compatibility with many applications.
Learn more about JAWS

NVDA is a popular free alternative to JAWS. 
Learn more about NVDA

​VoiceOver is a screen reader built in to macOS.
Learn more about VoiceOver

​Additional accessibility options for your computer or mobile device

Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android all offer accessibility options that magnify the screen, make text easier to read, enable captioning, and more. You can access these options from the Settings app on your device. You can also contact the Help Desk for assistance. 

disAbility Resources for Students

The DRS office has their own website and staff available to assist students.
http://www.wwu.edu/drs/

disAbility Resources for Faculty & Staff

Faculty and staff can contact Human Resources or Environmental Health & Safety for assistance with a disability or for accommodations while recovering from an injury or medical procedure. 
Stay at work / Return to work assistance 
Environmental Health & Safety website