Overview
The following video clips highlight some of the issues that colleges should consider when designing an accessible and useable website, intranet and/or virtual learning environment VLE.
In a collaborative project between the JISC Scottish RSCs and Coatbridge College a range of access methods were explored to demonstrate the range of ways learners may need to access information either on a college website or a VLE.
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Introduction
Margaret Mckay, the RSC eLearning Advisor for Accessibility and Inclusion (Scotland South and West) provides and introduction and overview of the project.
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W3C guidelines
Craig Mill, the RSC eLearning Advisor for Accessibility and Inclusion (Scotland North and East) considers some of the issues and challenges of designing a website to the W3C (Word Wide Web Consortium) guidelines.
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Screen reading software
A screen reader is software that attempts to identify and interpret what is being displayed on the screen. This interpretation is then represented to the user with text-to-speech, sound icons, or a braille output.
Craig considers how learners with a visual difficulty who use screen reading software can access a website. To view a video clip select from one of the formats below. To view a video clip select from one of the formats below. Each clip will open in a new window.
Voice recognition software
Voice recognitio or speech recognition, is a computer technology that uses audio input for entering data rather than a keyboard. In this clip Craig explores the potential of using voice recognition to navigate around a website.
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Switch access
For some learners a standard mouse and keyboard can be difficult or impossible to use. Craig explores how using switch access can benefit learners who have more complex needs.
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Alternative and adaptive input devices
Trackerballs, Intellikeys and custom overlays provide alternative ways to access a website. Craig explores who a variety of alternative and adaptive input devices can support learners who are unable to use a standard keyboard and mouse.
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Text to speech
For learners who have reading and writing difficulties, text-to-speech (text is spoken back to the user) can provide additional support. Margaret explores how Coatbridge have implemented text-to-speech for their students.
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Adjusting a web browser to suit individual learning needs
Explorer offers a range of features allowing learners to customise their browser to suit their individual needs, e.g., colour preferences, style sheets. In this clip Craig demonstrates the various options available to customise Internet Explorer.
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Alternative browsers
Internet Explorer is only one browser among many others for surfing the Internet. Margaret demonstrates how open source and freely available alternative browsers can be used to support learners with visual difficulties.
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Navigating the web using head movements
With an ordinary web cam and freely available software (camera mouse) it is possible to access a computer and surf the web using only head movements. Craig demonstrates how this can be done.
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Conclusion
Margaret concludes the series of video clips. If you would like to highlight similar good practice or require support to make elearning more accessible, please do not hesitate to get in touch.
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