Online instructor should strive to make document that we know its always available. I think beside using Microsoft Word,Excel/PowerPoint Documents/PDF we can able to use web links, create check lists all this software tools allow user to add an ALT text tage or visual elements.
The details into what does and does not work in designing a course with students of disabilities attending was very helpful
Univeral Design may not work for every online course component or for every online student with a disability. We need to build important guidelines for ourself to follow.
I learned that I must add closed captioning on any video or podcast that I use in my online course; I became aware of closed captioning software such as Media Acess Generator (MAGpie) or Annotation Edit, that can add subtitles to any video or podcast.
I appreciate the guidelines for instructors, especially avoiding sarcasm.
I've often spent 12–20 hours on my 2-3 page syllabi, making it as concise and clear as possible, but only now have I realized that color-coding, which I've used often, doesn't help everyone...
The ALT Text function in Word is something I was not aware and have never used. I will give it a try in my documents.
Alternative text (alt text) allows screen readers to capture the description of an object and read it aloud, providing aid for those with visual impairments.
There are good resourses for preparing for a online class. I did not know there was way to check color for someone who has colorblindness.
I learned that Media Access Generator is a great software for closed captioning.
SETH SORONNADI
THAT "All course content must have equivalent alternatives to auditory and visual content." I PLANNED ON USING IT
I agree course design should be left to the dept. chairs with input from the instructors
I am happy to see how much help and resources are there for disabled students. While sometimes it may be time consuming and costly, we can not ignore the fact that students have the desire and are eager to learn. this course has provided me with many resources to ensure that our students can have access to learning and be welcomed in a non threatening accessible environment.
Wow, just, WOW. I knew thjat there was alot to do when it came to course set up, but with disabled students, I am not sure that 40 hours a week are enough. Having all of the information pre-assembled in the correct styles and formats is the only way to go. Prepae, prepare, prepare.
All video and live meetings must be captioned. This is so everyone can access the material in different ways and be in accordance with section 504.
I agree with Helen course design should be left to the dept. chairs with input from the instructors.
The seven principles, gives me a perimeter as a instructor and i appreciate that there are many ways to implement teaching, as many different styles exist.
I found interesing the different ways in which to make a course more accessible, for instance; add an ALT text tag for an image, chart, photo or visual elements.
I am for instructors assisting with course design but I think that should be left up to the department chairs. I do like the idea that instructors have the right to edit a course. I don't think it should be left up to the instuctor to implement course design for students with diabilites, if the institution did not do so.
Learning about Media access Generator - MAGpie- for closed capturing was helpful.
Overall, I think the best thing that we can do for our students is to have an open door and welcoming attitude.
