Today is Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD), The purpose of GAAD is to raise awareness of digital inclusion and provides an opportunity to reflect on our commitment to creating an inclusive learning environment for all students and staff. Accessibility is not just a legal requirement; it’s a moral imperative that ensures every student has the opportunity to succeed. At our university, we are fortunate to have powerful tools like Microsoft 365 Education, Blackboard Ally, and Copilot to help us achieve this goal.
Microsoft 365 Education: Empowering Every Student
Microsoft 365 Education offers a suite of tools designed to enhance accessibility and support diverse learning needs. Features like Immersive Reader, which reads text aloud and breaks it down into manageable chunks, and Dictate, which allows students to convert speech to text, are invaluable for students with dyslexia, visual impairments, or other learning disabilities. Additionally, the accessibility checker in Microsoft Word and PowerPoint helps ensure that all documents and presentations are accessible to everyone.
- Learn about how to improve accessibility with the accessibility checker and Microsoft Accessibility tools for neurodiversity
Blackboard Ally: Making Course Content Accessible
Blackboard Ally is an essential tool for ensuring that all course materials are accessible. It automatically checks course content for accessibility issues and provides guidance on how to fix them. Ally also generates alternative formats for course materials, such as audio files, ePub for eBook readers, electronic braille, and the immersive reader allowing students to choose the format that best suits their needs. This not only helps students with disabilities but also enhances the learning experience for all students.
- Learn more about Blackboard Ally for module leaders and how students can access the Ally alternative formats
Copilot: Personalised Support for Students and Staff
Copilot is an AI assistant that can provide personalised support to both students and staff. For students, AI tools can assist with tasks such as scheduling, reminders, and finding resources, making it easier for them to manage their studies. For staff, AI tools can help streamline tasks, freeing up more time to focus on teaching and supporting students. By leveraging AI, such as Copilot ensures that everyone has the support they need to succeed.
- Learn more about how AI can support neuroinclusion in education in Higher Education
For more help with any of the following please contact the Digital Transformation Team in SLAR.