We are pleased to announce a new digital accessibility support tool arriving this summer, Blackboard Ally. This tool works in the background to help lecturers deliver more accessible learning content.
“Enabling everyone to realise their potential really matters at the University of Southampton. Digital accessibility of our learning materials and websites benefits everyone because, if learning materials are not accessible to learners, then learners’ abilities won’t be accessible to educators.”
Mal Allerton, Executive Director, iSolutions
How does Blackboard Ally work?
Blackboard Ally is a new tool that helps instructors and students get the most out of their online content by improving accessibility. The two key features of the tool are:
- Blackboard Ally automatically provides alternative formats of uploaded content. Formats include tagged PDF, HTML, ePub, electronic braille, audio (mp3) and more. Using these formats will suit the varying preferences of our diverse community. The usefulness of these alternative formats will depend on the accessibility of the original content.
- Blackboard Ally also provides automated indicators and on-screen coaching. Teaching staff will be prompted to improve the digital accessibility of their course content through simple steps.
If you would like to know more, visit watch this introductory Blackboard Ally webinar or visit our elearn page about Blackboard Ally.
Will there be training and support for the new tool?
The Blackboard project and Education Services group in iSolutions will be working with five interns (Accessibility Allies) over the summer to support Schools and Faculties to improve their resources. We will also be providing bespoke training and ongoing support as teaching staff work with the Ally coaching tools to develop their knowledge and skills.
Building our accessibility
The most important outcome of this activity is to embed digital accessibility so that when we create new materials, they are as accessible as possible. As part of the wider project, existing materials will also be reviewed and prioritised for revision.
One in five people in the UK has a disability, and these can affect how we use digital content. By creating more accessible content, we can ensure all our students benefit from the University of Southampton experience and educational opportunities. For example, a captioned video is helpful to a deaf student but also benefits non-native English speakers and those who are unable to listen to a video because they are working in public or shared spaces.
Find out more through the Digital Accessibility Blackboard elearning.
