As announced in PDAD&C #85, the University is launching a new online training module as per the requirements of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). The module is being launched in a staggered fashion with the next phase launching on Friday, April 28.

The training has been made available to faculty members and librarians. An announcement of availability was sent to each individual outlining the details of the training and how the module is accessed. All employees have been asked to complete the training, as it is a legislative requirement.

Further Information about the AODA and this Training

This module is delivered through the Learning Portal and is now be available to all employee groups; the rollout of this training module is complete. Communication will continue to be sent through various channels accordingly, and the AODA Office will now focus on tracking training completion, ensuring new hires receive the training, and identifying gaps where further training resources might be provided, should a need be identified.

The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) is aimed at making the places you work, live, and learn as accessible as possible. With the initial introduction of the Customer Service Standard of the AODA in 2010, the University began distributing the ‘Blue Brochure’ which covered its training requirements. It also delivered a series of online training modules on accessible customer service and the AODA. Further, the AODA Office has been providing in-person training, outreach, and resources on the requirements of the AODA.

This new training will be delivered through a 30-minute online module and is intended for all U of T employees, existing and new. This training replaces the ‘Blue Brochure’ and provides additional information on the requirements of the AODA, its Integrated Accessibility Standards Regulation, and the Ontario Human Rights Code as it relates to disability. We will be tracking completion of training using the University’s human resources information system.

We look forward to your completion of this training and making the University of Toronto more accessible for all of our staff, faculty, and students. Any questions can be directed to:

Ben Poynton
Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) Officer
aoda@utoronto.ca