Overview of the Americans with Disabilities Act - ADA Introduction Course
Course Purpose, Intended Audience(s), and Design:
This course provides a brief history of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), distinguishes the five titles that comprise the ADA, and defines key ADA terms, such as "person with a disability" and "service animal." It is designed as an introduction to the ADA, providing foundational information about the law. It does not assume previous knowledge about the ADA and can also serve as a refresher for those looking to check their general understanding of the ADA.
Course Structure:
The course is presented in three parts:
- Video Presentation:
- Closed-captioned video with on-camera speaker and slide show.
- Total run time: 54 minutes and 39 seconds.
- Copies of the speaker's slides are provided as PDF and RTF (Microsoft Word) documents, available for download.
- Quiz:
- A 10-question quiz to test your understanding.
- Evaluation:
- A course evaluation to provide feedback.
Learning Objectives:
Upon completing this course, you will:
- Briefly explain the history, need, and purpose of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
- Name and describe the five titles of the ADA.
- Define “person with a disability” as it applies to the ADA.
- Define "service animal" as it applies to the ADA.
- Identify resources for more information about the ADA.
Presenter's Bio:
Michelle “Mell” Toy
Mell is the Interim Director of the NW ADA Center (NWADAC), providing leadership in all aspects of operations. She creates and implements long- and short-term plans, supports and directs NWADAC staff, and oversees management and assessment of NWADAC procedures. Ms. Toy also acts as a liaison to the NWADAC state partners in Region 10, providing training, developing and implementing curriculum, assessing staff, and evaluating project outcomes.
Ms. Toy earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Washington. With 19 years of experience in blind rehabilitation, she joined the NWADAC as Assistant Director in 2018. As a Certified Low Vision Therapist and Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialist, she provided direct assessment and instruction services to people with visual and multiple disabilities in state, federal, and non-profit programs for over 15 years. At NWADAC, Ms. Toy extends outreach about the ADA and addresses access issues related to effective communication and accessible design. She works collaboratively with ADA Center leadership and staff nationwide on various projects and committees.