What Title II Changes Means (and Why They Matter)

The updated Title II rule requires public institutions to meet Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1, Level AA standards for web content, course materials, and apps. In practice, this means ensuring that digital educational resources are accessible to all learners.

Title II isn’t just compliance, it’s a catalyst for more inclusive, equitable learning. These changes ensure that every student can fully participate in education, access information equally, and feel a sense of belonging in the classroom. While implementation may present challenges, practical support is available to help institutions navigate this important shift.

Access Title II Checklist

What does Accessibility Look Like in Action?

At Macmillan Learning, accessibility is built into every step of product development, from initial design to final deployment. Here’s how Macmillan Learning is staying ahead of Title II changes and continuing to champion accessibility.

E-Books Built for All Learners

E-books are available in EPUB3 format to ensure flexibility and usability for a wide range of learners.

  • Accessibility Metadata: Metadata is included within each e-books and lists accessibility features, including clearly defined reading order and page numbers for easier navigation.
  • Clear, Adaptable Text: Resizable, reflowable, and readable at 400% magnification.
  • Easy Navigation: Supports page and heading navigation for quick reference.
  • EPUB Format: EPUB files, the standard for accessible e-books, work seamlessly with assistive technologies and are available DRM-free through Bookshare, AccessText Network, or by request
  • Flexible Access: Copy/paste up to two pages and print up to ten pages at a time.
  • Screen Reader & Keyboard Friendly: Logical reading order and full keyboard navigation ensure smooth interaction.
  • Trusted & Certified for Accessibility: Macmillan Learning e-books are Global Certified Accessible by Benetech and winners of the Accessible Books Consortium’s International Excellence Award for Accessible Publishing (2020).

Accessible Multimedia

Multimedia content is designed to ensure that every learner can engage fully, making courses more accessible for every student.

Images: All visuals include alternative text (short and long descriptions as needed).

Videos: All videos include closed captions, transcripts, and audio descriptions.

Simulations: Simulations are developed with accessibility experts to provide an inclusive, interactive experience.

Partnerships & Guiding Principles

Macmillan Learning is committed to delivering fully accessible content and platforms, guided by five core principles. To ensure progress, an Accessibility Advisory Board regularly meets to address accessibility challenges faced by students and universities. By collaborating with trusted partners such as Perkins Access, Macmillan Learning continuously drives improvements to its offerings, responds to evolving needs, and embraces best practices to create more inclusive and equitable learning experiences.

Learn more about our Accessibility initiatives here.

Institutional Support & Resources

You don’t have to navigate Title II changes alone. Macmillan Learning supports institutions in their efforts to create accessible learning environments for all students. 

Explore the resources page to find information about accessible formats, product support services, and how to create an accessible classroom. If you or your institution need further support, please contact us here!

Webinars & Events

Join the conversation through practical, real-talk webinars and events where you’ll receive practical insights, fresh perspectives, and strategies you can use right away.

See Upcoming Webinars & Events
 

Making Accessibility Practical

Big shifts in accessibility rules demand practical support. Explore these resources for actionable strategies and real-world answers.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Title II

    • Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires all state and local government entities, including public colleges and universities, to make all digital content (including websites, courseware, and apps) accessible to people with disabilities. The update mandates compliance with WCAG 2.1 Level AA standards, setting a clear baseline for accessibility in higher education.

    • The compliance timeline varies based on the size of the governing jurisdiction. Large public entities must comply within two years, while smaller entities have three years. The Macmillan Learning accessibility team is happy to meet with schools to discuss how our product roadmaps fit within these timelines and our continued efforts to support students.

    • Prepare for Title II by starting with these five steps:

      1. Conduct a comprehensive accessibility audit of all digital content, including websites, mobile apps, and digital course materials.
      2. Prioritizing updates for frequently used course materials.
      3. Training faculty and staff on accessible design.
      4. Partnering with vendors who provide accessible tools and formats.
      5. Creating processes for ongoing accessibility review and improvement.

    • Macmillan Learning’s digital textbooks are accessible with features like text-to-speech, screen reader compatibility, and WCAG compliance. While printed materials aren’t subject to digital standards, we offer accessible alternatives upon request. Achieve and iClicker meet WCAG 2.1 standards with some exceptions, detailed in our VPAT.

      We are happy to work with institutions to discuss these exceptions, address accommodations, and discuss the roadmap to making products fully accessible.