Inclusivity and accessibility are both an important factor when considering the use of e-learning in the educational setting. Both of these issues are primarily linked to minimising potential barriers that prevent learners from actively taking part in the learning process (Hill 2008, pp.38-40). As a result, the implementation and use of Information Learning Technology (ILT) can enhance the accessibility for learners, but more importantly it can help meet the varying needs of the individual student. For example, font size can be adjusted instantly by the click of a mouse, as can the background colour of the screen. Both can augment the clarity of the resource for those who are visually impaired or suffer from Dyslexia. For those learners who suffer from hearing loss, then written transcripts can also be utilised to compliment any auditory material that is incorporated into the lessons (Hillier 2005, p.122 and Reece and Walker 2007, p.192) and voice recognition and screen reading software can enable those learners who have poor literacy skills to actively participate in the lessons.
However, traditional methods of inclusive practice are still a viable alternative if such technologies prove unreliable, the software is unavailable due to financial constraints, or if there is a limited amount of resources available at any one time. Because of these potential pitfalls, many practitioners still use or revert to coloured paper, enlarged font printing and the insertion of Learning Support staff into sessions as a contingency to enable inclusivity and accessibility.
Reference List
Hill, C. (2008) Teaching with e-learning in the Lifelong Learning Sector. 2nd Edition. Exeter: Learning Matters Ltd.
Hillier, Y. (2005) reflective teaching in further and adult education. 2nd Edition. London: Continuum.
Reece, I., and Walker, S. (2007) Teaching, training & learning: A practical guide. 6th Edition. Tyne and Wear: Business Education Publishers.
this is good- to the point and clearly expressed- what heppened before this? Has the intention of these tools actually acheived what it set out to do? what iassues might there be?
ReplyDeleteI've added to my post accordingly and have mentioned how the traditional methods are still an important and viable alternative if things don't quite go to plan with the technology.
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