Accessibility

Module Focus

This module introduced the laws and regulations related to making online and blended learning materials accessible to all students. In general, teachers are made aware of student disabilities by the IEP (Individualized Education Plan). However, many students have disabilities that go undiagnosed or unknown, such as color blindness or impaired hearing. Teachers following the Universal Design principles are ensuring that all students have accessible curriculum. I have reflected on my own accessibility practices and created a video assignment with accompanying captions and a transcript.

Establishing an Accessible Social Presence

Reflection: Establishing an Accessible Social Presence

Below is an outline of the iNACOL Standards for Quality Online Teaching that have been strengthened so far in this course (Module 2).

Content

  • Legal and Acceptable Use Policies (10)

For this week's activities I created an instructional video for Cuyamaca College on the topic of netiquette. The content created for the netiquette video outlines how to conduct oneself on video conference calls, discussion board assignments and writing emails. This content meets a portion of the iNACOL content standards that pertain to proper communication in an online course.

Instructional Design

  • Course Unite and Lesson Design (2)

  • Instructional Strategies and Activities (3 & 7)

  • Resources and Materials (11)

The netiquette video is organized by different online activities as it pertains to proper behavior and communication in an online course. The video uniquely presents content through demonstration, screen recordings, powerpoint slides and voice overs. Resources such as Cuyamaca College’s Student Code of Conduct is directly demonstrated and referenced in the video for students to access for further learning.

Technology

  • Accessibility (10)

  • Data Security (11)

The netiquette video is published on Youtube with edited closed captions for accessibility. A full downloadable transcript of the video is linked below the video on the Accessibility page of this site. So as not to violate privacy and confidentiality, the creator requested permission from members of the course to feature footage from their discussion board activities in the video with a screen recording.

Post Reflection: Although I was able to successfully create an accessible video in this module, I feel that accessibility practices are where I need to continually seek information and resources to guide the accessibility of my courses and meet the diverse needs of students in a online environment. I am committed to working with my supervisors, colleagues and institution to master accessibility practices and ensure the success of all students. Accessibility during the COVID-19 pandemic has tested the resources and normal processes for meetings students needs. In an effort to create a more accessible world for students, I have enrolled in an Open Educational Resources Initiative (OERI) program where I will continue to learn about accessibility and creating free online educational resources for students.