How can you ensure accessibility and inclusivity for all students in your online higher education programs?

I think the most impactful method for colleges and universities to ensure accessibility and inclusivity for online students is really to begin with the pedagogy. Faculty and instructors need to be thoroughly trained in HOW to teach online before they can be assigned an onlne course. AND it goes beyond learning the platform's nuances. I would argue that's the easy part because you can always get a TA or intern to be co-host and manage the technology. So what is your institution doing to really take on the responsibility and accountability of training faculty and staff who teach or counsel/advise students online?

One thing I have found helpful to students involved in online higher education learning is for the contents created to fully engaged the students throughout the period. This can be achieved by including short-answered exercises intermittently during the course of the lecture as this has the potential to take the students away from likely distractions.

Being culturally sensitive in an online environment is key to reaching out to all of your students. If using a video platform (Google Meets. Microsoft Teams, Zoom, etc.), be mindful that not everyone can participate with their video on. There may not be enough bandwidth, or the connection is unstable. In addition, the student may not be willing to share their background or face at the moment. It doesn't mean that they are not engaged. Regular check-ins and allowing the chat feature ensures that all voices can be heard.

Continuous feedback ensures accessibility and inclusivity by regularly assessing and addressing diverse student needs. This iterative process allows for real-time adjustments in course materials, teaching methods, and support services, ensuring they are accessible to all learners, including those with disabilities. By actively seeking and incorporating student input, educators can create a more inclusive learning environment that accommodates various learning styles and preferences, fostering a supportive and equitable educational experience for every student.

Peer collaboration ensures accessibility and inclusivity by fostering diverse interactions and support networks among students. Collaborative projects and discussion groups encourage the sharing of varied perspectives and skills, accommodating different learning styles and abilities. This approach helps students receive peer support, promoting a sense of belonging. By facilitating inclusive group dynamics and accessible collaboration tools, online programs can create a more equitable and engaging learning environment for all students.