Online Education
Overview
Implementing the principles of universal design in online learning means anticipating the diversity of students that may enroll in your course and planning accordingly. We highlight ten considerations that will greatly enhance the accessibility and usability of your course for students with and without disabilities. They are shown here with screen shots from WebCT but are applicable regardless of the course management tool you may be using.
- Develop content first, then design.
- Provide simple, consistent navigation.
- Include an accommodation statement.
- Choose CMS tools carefully.
- Model and teach good discussion board etiquette.
- Use color with care.
- Provide accessible document formats.
- Choose fonts carefully.
- Convert PowerPoint™ to accessible HTML.
- If it’s auditory make it visual; if it is visual make it auditory.
Content first, then design.
Planning online courses with accessibility AND usability in mind can save hours of time down the line. Here is a suggested process for planning your online course.
- Determine what elements and content you will include in your course.
- Use outlines or concept maps to plan flow of content.
- Familiarize yourself and/or seek training to learn what is possible with the course management system you are using.
- Develop a navigation scheme that is based on your outline or concept map.
- Consider the other 9 tips below as you develop your content.
- After you have completed these steps, begin to post content.
Provide simple, consistent navigation.
- Be consistent throughout your course.
- Use concise, meaningful text for links.
- Like this: Writing Good Link Descriptions
- Not this: Click here for information on writing good link descriptions
- To the extent possible, avoid requiring students to drill down multiple times to reach your content.
- Avoid this: Example of multiple drill down
- Provide a table of contents for easy navigation to all components of your course.
Image of Course Menu from WebCT Course
Resources
Internet Resources
JimThatcher.com: Tutorial on Accessible Navigation
Additional Resources
www.accesselearning.net Access E-Learning (AEL) is a ten-module tutorial that is a resource for those seeking to make their distance education accessible for individuals with disabilities.
www.cew.wisc.edu/accessibility/tutorials Center on Education and Workforce, University of Wisconsin - Madison