Module 1 Overview

Why Accessibility Matters 

In this first module, you will explore how students with disabilities often face barriers to academic access, success, and completion. You will learn about the various reasons why accessible design is important and understand why there is increased attention on this critical issue in higher education.  In this module you will develop a deeper and broader understanding of some of the barriers to success that your current and potential students might be facing. You will also learn the difference between Accommodation and Accessibility and the role that the Disability Resource Center plays in this.

You will also be introduced to Universal Design for Learning (UDL). You will examine how it fits into the bigger picture of Universal Design for Learning and accessibility. This module will allow you to reflect on how you can use these principles and methods to provide equal learning opportunities to your learners. Participating in this module will help you design a learning environment that is flexible and allows for equal learning opportunities.

Course Competencies

  • Recognize how students with disabilities often face academic barriers to access, success, and completion.
  • With accessibility in mind, utilize the principles of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) in designing learning experiences
  • Analyze the benefits of Backward Design when developing learning experiences

Learning Objectives

At the end of this module participants will be able to:

  • Recognize the importance of accessible design
  • Describe the ways in which disability may impact students and their learning experiences.
  • Recognize the difference between Accommodation and Accessibility. 
  • Reflect on how Accessibility and UDL complement each other when designing learning experiences.

Learning Activities

In this module, we have approximately 2 1/2 hours learning activities, including content that you can read, watch, and/or listen to, as well as an assignment, quiz, and a discussion forum. You can certainly spend more time exploring the various websites and resources if you choose to do so.

The primary activities are:  

  • Short readings
  • Videos
  • Assignment
  • Quiz
  • Discussion forum

Assessment

Quiz: Why Accessibility?

Blog: Accessible Design Blog

 

Estimated time on this page: 10 minutes