Online resources to support the learning of disabled students.

29.06.2010

3rd International Conference Education 4 AllWarsaw, PolandJune 29th - July 1st

Matt Smith and Dr Val Chapman, University of Worcester

Centre for Inclusive Learning SupportUnited Kingdom

Introduction• Introducing two web resources developed by

the Centre fro Inclusive Learning Support• Q4S

• UMA

Sessions Structure

Project Summary

ResearchConceptual Framework

Using the resource

Web Resource

Project Overview

• Funded by EU Leonardo Da Vinci, Life Long Learning Programme

• Oct 2009 – Sept 2011• Knowledge transfer, Inclusive practice• Project Partners; Greece, Turkey, Bulgaria

PROODOS A.E. Centre of Vocational Training

Project OverviewQ4S Objectives

“The resource will enable disabled students to identify barriers to their learning, and provide them with

strategies and practical resources to overcome these barriers”

“As a result, Q4S will contribute to disabled students’ integration into mainstream training and subsequently into employment, thereby improving their life chances

and enhancing the available pool of skilled labour”

Research

• Two stage research• Pre-development research• 175 students

• FindingsLiteracy and numeracyLegal rights. Self advocacy, disclosure

Research

Pilot testing research• 145 face to face, 100 online feedback.

• FindingsAccessibility

ReadabilityImagesBackground coloursAudio version

Concept

• Key Skills • Numeracy • Literacy• Practical skills• ICT skills• Group work• Visual skills

Concept• Q4S web resource offers advice on:

Self HelpDisclosure Support from tutors

• Accessibility– Reading age – Image – Audio format– Colour backgrounds.

Using Q4S

Project Overview

• National Teaching Fellowship Scheme funded• Feb 2009 – Jan 2011• Led by the University of Worcester, Dr Val

Chapman CILS• ...in partnership with the University of

Gloucestershire and University of Plymouth

Project Overview

ObjectiveAddress lower levels of employment of graduates with disabilities.

Only 50% of disabled people of working age are in employment compared to 81% of non-disabled people of working age.

Web based resource• University staff, inclusive learning practice, • Students • Employers

Research

Research Purpose• Inform web resource content and design• Stakeholders

ResearchResearch Approach– Methods– Target groups

Key findings(1) Written communication(2) Attitude not disability a barrier (3) Reflective learning(4) Extracurricular activities

Concept• Based on premise that all skills are executed

through the application of certain ‘abilities’• Focus on ability rather than impairment• Recognises a spectrum of ability• Recognises the dynamic of ability within the

individual• Recognises the individual experience of

impairment and disability

Using UMA

Online resources to support the learning of disabled students.

29.06.2010

3rd International Conference Education 4 AllWarsaw, PolandJune 29th - July 1st

Questions