The problem as I see it is that the ALERT Guidelines are not concerned with
the content of the material but just with the delivery of it. There is one
guideline that refers to formative assessments and relevant feedback is
mentioned implicitly. But there is nothing in any guidelines I have seen
that asks lecturers to examine their materials for accessibility. I do not
wish to condemn the ALERT guidelines they are excellent in what they are
aiming for but I would like to go one step back and examine the lecturer's
content before putting material out for a VLE.

Gerard Conroy

-----Original Message-----
From: Discussion list for disabled students and their support staff.
[mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Kenneth Grainger
Sent: 20 February 2008 17:17
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Re: Wikis/twikis/blogs and stuff - Help!

 
Hi, All
 
Is anyone using the guidance from ALERT?
 
http://www.bournemouth.ac.uk/alert/
 
 
Ken

________________________________

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!

===============================
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]> 
================================

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