Accessibility & Universal Design for Learning (UDL)
One of the hallmarks of online learning is its flexible format, which has increased access for a wide range of students previously unable to attain a higher education. As the number of offerings moving online continues to grow, however, it is crucial that accessibility for all students be a focal point of the course design process. In order to achieve this standard of accessibility, it is essential to understand the challenges and barriers that students with disabilities often experience in the online learning environment.
A large part of how accessible various features are within online educational tools depends on how the instructor designs, organizes, and maintains the course. It is also important to educate yourself about the potentially problematic features in online education in order to help make them more accessible for students using assistive technology.
The below essential resources will provide you with some information about accessibility, Universal Design for Learning (UDL), and what to consider in online course design when you are designing your course.