How CSU Global Designs for Inclusive Online Education from the Start

Campus Technology Insider Podcast

The Campus Technology Insider podcast explores current trends and issues impacting technology leaders in higher education. Listen in as Editor in Chief Rhea Kelly chats with ed tech experts and practitioners about their work, ideas and experiences.


Campus Technology recently published 14 technology predictions for the coming year, based on input from higher education and ed tech industry experts across the country. A key statement on that list was this: Digital accessibility will be central to an inclusive campus culture. As Brian Fodrey, assistant vice president for Business Innovation at Carnegie Mellon University, put it, "Campus leaders must be thinking about how we are preparing our respective communities to take a more proactive and comprehensive approach to removing barriers and promoting all aspects of digital equity…. Prioritizing digital accessibility practices in all aspects of campus operations and life creates a more supportive community and inclusive culture for all."

That focus on digital accessibility is central to instructional design practice at Colorado State University Global. As the nation's first fully online, accredited nonprofit state university, CSU Global strives to achieve universal design standards in all of its programs, and to make courses accessible to a wide range of learners. We spoke with Associate Vice President of Digital Learning Andrea Butler and Director of Instructional Design Diona Hartwig about the importance of designing for accessibility from the start, ways to engage students in the online environment, and how inclusive design ultimately serves all students.

Resource links:

Music: Mixkit

Duration: 28 minutes

Transcript

Ways to Listen

Campus Technology Insider is available on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, Spotify and Stitcher. Subscribe today or listen at campustechnology.com/podcast.

About the Author

Rhea Kelly is editor in chief for Campus Technology, THE Journal, and Spaces4Learning. She can be reached at [email protected].

Featured

  • A panel discussion from SXSW EDU 2025

    12 Ways to Dive into AI at SXSW EDU

    This March 9-12, the SXSW EDU Conference & Festival returns to Austin, TX, to celebrate innovation, experimentation, and learning across every stage of education.

  • abstract cybersecurity data protection

    Rubrik Intros Google Workspace Data Protection

    Rubrik has announced the launch of Rubrik Data Protection for Google Workspace, a product the company said is designed to help enterprise customers protect data and restore operations across Google Workspace environments.

  • Educational path and career development growth with neon icons for study, idea, graduation, and success

    How to Embrace Lifelong Learning as a Non-negotiable for Career Growth

    In a world shaped by rapid technological change and shifting economic forces, staying curious and committed to learning is the most powerful way to stay prepared.

  • SXSW EDU

    SXSW EDU 2026: Discover How to Incorporate Technology with Impact

    With the proliferation of AI and advanced technology, education leaders have an opportunity to find and implement the right solutions to make a difference for learners. This March 9-12, SXSW EDU 2026 is your chance to discover innovative edtech, connect with trailblazing peers, and find strategies that make an impact.