Nico Diaz is an Academic Development and Recovery Advisor at Boise State University. In the 2021 Open Ed session entitled “Utilizing OER in Conjunction with Universal Design Principles to Support Students with Disabilities,” Diaz described their role on campus helping students make adjustments and how they use OER and UDL to support students with disabilities. Interestingly, Diaz said that students with disabilities are enrolling at higher rates. I wonder if that is nationwide? The transition from high school to college is particularly challenging for students with disabilities according to Diaz. To help students be more successful, Diaz suggested scripting disclosure of disability, negotiating accommodations with faculty, and downplaying one’s disability status. These practices made me think. Diaz listed how principles of UDL provide a support framework for educators and flexibility. The principles listed were: equitable use, flexibility of use, simple and intuitive use, perceptible information, tolerance for error, low physical effort, size and space for approach, community of learners, and instructional climate. Connecting OER and UDL, Diaz talked about the accessibility of OER and standards. First, Diaz cited Zhang et al. and making sure materials are perceivable by all users. I had not considered alt text when this was initially mentioned. Second, the operability of the materials is important: students must be able to use the material seamlessly. Third, the materials must be understandable: readable, for example. Fourth, the materials must be robust: readable in a variety of formats. Diaz suggested moving away from learning preferences such as the VARK model and promoting multiple modalities in a single OER to promote retention. Diaz emphasized building study skills and “soft skill” development in OER by “addressing time management, concentration, study skills, critical thinking, and activity study strategies through OER.” Knowledge check questions embedded in videos and interactive illustrations were listed as useful tools for students. This was a fun and useful session. I had not considered OER with study skills!
