As ADA Anniversary Approaches, University of Phoenix Survey Highlights AI's Potential to Advance Accessibility in Work and Learning

As the 36th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) approaches, a new survey conducted by The Harris Poll on behalf of the University of Phoenix reveals significant insights into the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in enhancing accessibility in both workplace and educational settings. The survey highlights that among employed adults who have recently engaged in training or educational courses, a substantial 60% of those using AI report improvements in their understanding and application of accessibility standards and guidelines. This data underscores the potential for AI to not only aid productivity but also to foster inclusive environments for individuals with diverse abilities.

The survey, which involved 1,019 employed adults in the United States, aimed to assess how AI is influencing accessibility practices in professional and learning contexts. Accessibility is defined as the design of digital content and tools that can be effectively utilized by individuals with varying abilities. This includes adherence to established guidelines such as the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), which serve as a framework for creating content that is accessible to all users. The findings are particularly timely, as they coincide with the ADA anniversary, a landmark legislation aimed at ensuring equal rights and opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

Survey Findings

Among the respondents who are already implementing AI in their workplaces, the survey indicates that 60% believe AI has enhanced their knowledge of accessibility standards. Notably, nearly 19% of these individuals reported significant improvements in this area. However, the survey also highlights a critical gap in organizational policies regarding accessibility. A concerning 45% of respondents expressed uncertainty about whether their workplace AI policies adequately address accessibility issues, indicating a need for clearer guidance and training in this domain.

Kelly Hermann, Vice President of Accessibility and Student Affairs at the University of Phoenix, emphasized the universal benefits of accessibility, stating, "The reality is that accessibility benefits everyone." She advocates for the integration of accessibility considerations from the outset of AI implementation. By doing so, organizations can create AI-enabled environments that are more usable for everyone, including busy professionals, multilingual learners, and individuals with disabilities.

As AI technologies are increasingly utilized for drafting documents, summarizing information, generating captions, and assisting with various workplace tasks, the importance of accessibility becomes paramount. Poorly implemented AI can inadvertently create barriers, leading to inaccessible content, biased outputs, and ineffective tools for users relying on assistive technologies.

The Importance of Responsible AI

Hermann further articulated that responsible AI transcends mere productivity metrics; it is fundamentally about ensuring that technology serves the needs of all users. She noted that while AI has the potential to enhance accessibility and provide flexible engagement with information, achieving these outcomes requires clear organizational policies, practical training, and human oversight to ensure that AI-generated outputs are accurate and usable.

The survey findings suggest that organizations have a significant opportunity to align their AI adoption strategies with accessibility practices and workforce training initiatives. Employers and educators can take immediate actions to enhance AI training by incorporating practical resources. The most sought-after training methods identified by respondents include real-world examples from their respective fields (36%), hands-on practice with realistic scenarios (34%), and step-by-step demonstrations of common tasks (33%).

In addition to her role at the University of Phoenix, Hermann leads various initiatives aimed at promoting accessibility, including the Center for Access, Resources, Engagement and Support Services (CARES) and the annual virtual event Access Amplified™. This event gathers professionals from diverse backgrounds to discuss and develop strategies for improving digital accessibility in web development, bridging the gap between coding practices and the experiences of users with assistive technologies.

The survey was conducted online from June 22 to June 29, 2026, targeting employed adults aged 18 and older who have participated in professional training or educational courses within the past year. The sample data is statistically reliable, with a margin of error of +/- 3.8 percentage points at a 95% confidence level, ensuring that the insights gleaned from this survey are reflective of broader trends in the workforce.

Why it matters

The implications of this survey are significant for both creators and technologists. As AI continues to permeate various sectors, the emphasis on accessibility must be prioritized to ensure that all individuals can benefit from technological advancements. The findings highlight the necessity for organizations to not only implement AI tools but also to develop comprehensive training programs that address accessibility. By fostering an inclusive environment, organizations can enhance productivity and engagement while adhering to ethical standards that promote equality.

The insights from the University of Phoenix survey serve as a call to action for businesses and educational institutions alike to reevaluate their AI policies and practices. As we approach the ADA anniversary, it is crucial to recognize that accessibility is not merely a compliance issue but a fundamental aspect of responsible innovation in technology.