Hi, All
Is anyone using the guidance from ALERT?
http://www.bournemouth.ac.uk/alert/
Ken
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From: Discussion list for disabled students and their support staff. on behalf of Richards N.M.
Sent: Wed 2/20/2008 11:19 AM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Wikis/twikis/blogs and stuff - Help!
Hi All,
I'm hoping somebody may be able to help me.
With the rapidly emerging range of e-learning technologies becoming available, ensuring accessibility is an issue which really needs to be addressed. Here at Swansea University there are a number of e-learning initiatives based on web 2.0 technologies ongoing. Things like wikis, blogs and social networking type websites, some of which are actively used in the learning and teaching environment. Mobile phone providers such as Orange/Vodafone are looking to get in on this too.
We need to ensure that these websites, specifically the content, is accessible, without stifling academic freedom. I am thinking in particular with regards to students who have been asked to post content. An example would be where a group of students have been asked to create a blog/wiki as part of their course. How do we ensure that a podcast or video is fully accessible? Do we ask the students to provide a full transcript for these or is there a department responsible for transcription services? Whose responsibility is it to ensure accessibility? Is it the institution or individual member of staff? Many of these web 2.0 technologies are widely available externally and it is almost impossible to prevent enterprising Academics from using them as a core part of a module/course.
While I understand that educating the staff on disability issues is important, we need to have some kind of University policy/guidelines to ensure that everyone understands their responsibilities. My questions are; How are other institutions prepared for this and how do they manage this? Who has responsibility for ensuring content is accessible - institution, Academics or students? And do you have any policies in place that you would be prepared to share?
Really appreciate any comments or help you can provide. Many thanks In advance!
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Nathalie M Richards
IT Officer / Swyddog Cymorth TG
Library & Information Services and Student Services / Gwasanaethau Llyfrgell a Gwybodaeth & Gwasanaethau Cefnogi Myfyrwyr
Swansea University / Prifysgol Abertawe
Singleton Park / Parc Singleton
Swansea / Abertawe
SA2 8PP
Tel / Ffôn: 01792 602236
Email / E-bost: [log in to unmask] <mailto:[log in to unmask]>
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Swansea University: winner of the 2005 Times Higher Education Supplement Award for the UK's Best Student Experience
Prifysgol Abertawe: enillydd Gwobr y Times Higher Education Supplement 2005 am y Profiad Gorau i Fyfyrwyr yn y DU
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