Title: Why is accessibility important?
Course: Digivisio - DEMO course template > Section: Accessibility

Accessibility can mean many things and there are many definitions, but in this context, the term “accessible e-learning course” refers to a course, which is designed in a way that as diverse learners as possible can study it, either with aids or without. Accessibility contains aspects of both digital accessibility as well as the language used.

An accessible course benefits all learners and ultimately saves the teacher’s time as well, although it might take a bit longer to build. An accessible course is clear, progresses logically, and decreases the number of questions the learners might have.

Law

”An authority, education provider, employer and provider of goods or services must make appropriate and reasonable adjustments in each situation so that a person with disabilities can use services of authorities and receive education, work, and goods and services available to the public on an equal basis with other citizens, as well as performing their duties and advancing their career.” (Non-discrimination Act, 1325/2014). The accessibility at universities covers teaching methods, learning environments, digital systems, physical locations, and attitudes. (OHO project 2017-2019.)

Practice

Educational institutions have different practices regarding who is responsible for accessibility. An individual teacher cannot do much about digital systems or physical premises, but everybody can adjust their own teaching materials – and teaching situations – to be as accessible as possible. This section focuses especially on that.