A framework to foster accessibility in post-pandemic virtual higher education

Area of Science:

• Educational Technology
• Higher Education Accessibility
• Digital Learning

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated a rapid shift to virtual education, implementing various tech solutions like virtual tutoring and Open Educational Resources (OER).
• While these technologies offer benefits for hybrid and blended learning, they also highlighted significant accessibility challenges in virtual higher education.
• Addressing these accessibility issues is crucial for maximizing the potential of educational technology.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a framework for adopting best practices in technological accessibility within virtual Higher Education.
• To guide Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in tailoring accessibility improvements to their specific needs and constraints.
• To facilitate the integration of accessible technological solutions in post-pandemic educational settings.

Main Methods:

• Development of a four-action framework designed to improve technological accessibility in virtual Higher Education.
• Implementation and testing of the framework across four diverse Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) as a proof-of-concept.
• Evaluation of the framework's adaptability and effectiveness in real-world HEI scenarios.

Main Results:

• The framework proved adaptable to the unique requirements of each participating HEI.
• Implementation fostered improved accessibility and inclusion through technology-aligned organizational structures.
• Preliminary results indicate the framework is a promising approach for enhancing technological accessibility in higher education.

Conclusions:

• The proposed framework effectively supports HEIs in adopting good practices for technological accessibility in virtual learning environments.
• The adaptable nature of the framework allows for tailored solutions that respect institutional constraints and needs.
• Successful instantiation in multiple HEIs demonstrates its potential to promote accessibility and inclusion in higher education through technology.