Accessibility is all about creating digital content that is available and usable to individuals with disabilities. As the learning industry is digitalising, it is becoming more and more important that digital accessibility guidelines are followed by all online creators, regardless of its purpose. We could even say that by creating this inclusive accessible eLearning environment, learning creators are acting as a catalyst for change that not only empowers learners with disabilities but also supports them in achieving their full potential and sense of self. Although the simple act of following guidelines may not seem like a massive feat to most, understanding the power one holds in designing online content can reveal how our communities can work together to promote the success of all individuals, regardless of their abilities.
We are all aware of the traditional learning formats, where you are sat in a class room, spoken to directly by an instructor, and expected to retain as much information as possible for an upcoming exam, assignment, or practical test. And as you can imagine, this format didn’t work for most. Physical barriers that make it difficult for people with mobility difficulties exist in a class room setting, while those with cognitive difficulties may find it difficult to sit and listen to a lecture or read large amounts of text. This is where eLearning steps in. The transformative nature of this new wave of learning is able to be personalised, broken down, and accessed on any necessary device. eLearning, as a result has created learning and career opportunities that would otherwise be inaccessible to learners with disabilities.
Although it may be obvious that certain learners benefit more so from an eLearning experience than their peers, how does accessible learning provide opportunity? By allowing individuals to access the learning without any barriers through accommodations. Let’s look at how learning designers can empower all different types of learners.
Audio Descriptions and transcripts
For learners who have visual impairments, eLearning platforms can provide audio descriptions of visual elements and content. Enabling visually impaired learners to access the same content that their peers are. For those with hearing impairments, written transcripts and captioning of audio content ensures these learners are able to consume knowledge and fully participate in the learning experience.
Alternative formats
By providing alternative formats for learners, such as simplified language or visual aids, learning designers can cater to the needs of those with cognitive difficulties who may have trouble understanding and processing complex information.
Customisable settings
Giving learners the ability to alter settings to best fit the needs of their learners can promote the success of those with sensory sensitivities. Front sizes and colours can make a huge difference to these learners. For example, a person with dyslexia may find it easier to read content that is a specific font or colour scheme.
Flexibility
Offering flexible learning options for learners with mobility impairments allows these individuals to learn from anywhere, without having to worry about physical access barriers such as stairs, or thin doorways. For more fine motor impairments, limiting the physical interactions within the course ensure that these learners are able to fully participate in the experience.
Collaboration
A tool that should be used for all online learners, but can also provide a safe and comfortable space for learners with social disabilities to interact with other peers. This promotes communication and collaboration skills that would have otherwise been overlooked in the classroom.
Lifestyle also plays a massive factor in ones ability to access learning. Learners with disabilities can live an extremely different lifestyle to their peers, they may have medical appointments or treatments on a regular basis and will need to work learning opportunities in around their schedule. Here, the learner may choose to complete the learning experience while at an appointment, at home, or in the company of a caregiver who may regular interrupt them for assistance needs.
As a learning designer, your role also includes creating an inclusive and diverse learning experience for all. Not only does this type of learning experience promote the diversity of the education industry but also that of the workplace. By offering accessible eLearning, learning designers can promote the diversity of the class room that then builds the skills required for employment. Organisations can then hire a diverse team, where all learners would contribute their own skill sets to the success of the organisation. However, this is only possible if the organisation, like that of the class room, offers training material that all employees are able to access. The goal of the learning designer act as a catalyst by creating an accessible class room with the hopes that it carries into other industries.
Learning has the potential to revolutionise the learning industry and we’re taking the right steps in doing so. By creating opportunities for learners with disabilities to access skill building courses and education material, eLearning designers are able to be at the forefront of a diverse work world. As the world of digitalisation is booming, the learning industry will continue to grow, and it’s at the discretion of its designers to ensure it heads in the right direction, regardless of disabilities, lifestyle, or industry.