Enhancing the Student Experience:​ Inclusive and accessible approaches within Blackboard Ultra​

Parry, Dewi, Lancaster, Anthony and Evans, Geraint 2022. Enhancing the Student Experience:​ Inclusive and accessible approaches within Blackboard Ultra​. Presented at: Anthology Together Europe 2023, Birmingham, 25-26 October 2023.

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Abstract

Digital Learning Environments (DLEs) have become integral to Higher Education. However, considering the number of instructors, courses and individual elements of content, the quest for inclusivity and accessibility within these platforms remains a persistent challenge. This workshop revolves around a project dedicated to addressing inclusivity and accessibility concerns within the DLE through the development of an enhancement model to foster equitable learning opportunities for all students. The institutional move to Blackboard Ultra has provided a flexible and accessible platform for students to engage with course materials and collaborate remotely, with equitable access for all learners emerging as a crucial imperative. Yet, the full benefits of teaching and learning through the platform can only be fully realised when they are designed with inclusivity and accessibility in mind. The unique blend of technology, pedagogy, and diverse learner needs necessitates a collaborative approach across a range of stakeholders including faculty, students, learning technologists, instructional designers, librarians, and disability services to name just a few. The team will initially share the aims of constructing foundational, optimal and transformational steps towards a fully accessible and inclusive student journey within Blackboard Ultra at Cardiff University. The team will then offer a space for collaboration and knowledge sharing around how we can all collectively contribute to enhancing the digital learning experience for all students based around three areas: Developing Practice: Developing inclusive and digitally accessible practices can eliminate barriers to education for students, ensuring that learning resources and opportunities are available to all, regardless of physical or cognitive limitations. Embedding Principles: Thoughtful design can engage learners and promote active participation through embedding learning design and universal design principles. Developing Capabilities: Equipping educators with the knowledge and skills to create accessible content and to develop inclusive practices thus fostering a culture of digital inclusivity within academic institutions.

Item Type:	Conference or Workshop Item (Other)
Status:	Unpublished
Schools:	Academic & Student Support Service
Date of Acceptance:	25 October 2022
Last Modified:	05 Jan 2024 16:09
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/165133

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