The Inclusive Design in Online Learning project explored barriers to inclusive online learning for college students during the conversion to remote learning. By identifying student and faculty needs, the project results have encouraged faculty to implement inclusive teaching practices in the online environment by providing them with key tools to redesign their course materials using simple intuitive design and inclusive practices.
The Inclusive Design in Online Learning project provided faculty with a course template for the design and delivery of accessible educational materials while adhering to principles established through Universal Design for Learning (UDL) , Differentiated Instruction , and Web Content Accessibility Guidelines for the sharing of digital educational materials.
Impact / Outcome The Inclusive Design for Online Learning course template has been shared with hundreds of college faculty and staff at over 15 post-secondary institutions, across Canada and internationally. The template and webinar also reside in D2L’s online Accessibility Lab. Begun as a capstone project at Mohawk College, and now continued by the lead researcher, Allison Fitzgibbon in her role at Sheridan College, the project has led to the further development of resources for faculty, staff, and administrators. The next phase of the research project, beginning in 2021, will explore the impacts of the template on faculty perceptions of readiness to meet the diverse needs of their students in the remote learning environment.
Key Metrics Encourage faculty to implement inclusive teaching practices in the online environment
