Access

Dimension 1: Learner-Centred

Evaluating OER against the Access criterion

Learner-Centred

Learners are at the centre of OER design and their prior knowledge and experience are respected as valuable additions to the learning environment.

The Equity Rubric for OER Evaluation gives a resource a high rating for Access if it “provides multimodal access to the content.”

The Rubric suggests looking for “materials that can be accessed on multiple devices; materials that can be saved or printed, as well as used in digital formats.”

Key Examples and Suggestions

Enhancing Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility (IDEA) in Open Educational Resources (OER)

Nikki Andersen

This brilliant book can be exported in nine formats as well as read online.

Access: Enhancing IDEA in OER.

‘Definitions’ chapter of Enhancing IDEA in OER

Nikki Andersen

The definitions in this chapter are provided in both written and infographic formats.

Access: Definitions

Trauma Informed Education

Krishnamoorthy, Ayre & Schimke

The use of QR codes throughout this book ensures links are accessible in both the digital and print formats.

Access: Chapter 1: Helping Traumatized Children Learn

The Gender-Just Language Education Project

Kris Knisely

This openly-licensed resource is offered in both English and French, affording access to speakers of either language as well as addressing the difficulties of inclusivity encountered in a language (French) that uses binary gendered articles as part of everyday grammar.

Access: The Gender-Just Language Education Project

WCAG 2.2 Map

Inotopia

This map provides a visual representation of the latest version of the W3C Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). The map itself demonstrates the inclusive method of presenting information in multiple formats (i.e. transforming textual information into a visual mind-mapped format). However, it is also an excellent resource for those looking to learn the WCAG guidelines to increase the accessibility of their OER and meet online accessibility standards.

Access: WCAG 2.2 Map

(If you’re still using WCAG 2.1, there is a Visual Map for that, too!)

Download this page (pdf)