Learning materials fall into several categories:
- The traditional commercially published textbook model. Many publishers are making their packages more lucrative by including learning objects, such as PPT, test banks, instructional videos, etc. These additional items leave me wondering if they take teaching out of instruction and out of the institution. The instruction materials covered by the publisher rely on use of the textbook from start to finish. The instructor becoming dependent on what is available from the publisher and at the will of updates/edits/adaptations that are made by said company.
- Library resources is a viable alternative, removing many copyright restrictions. Library resources can be embedded in class materials through a permalink. When an instructor used a permalink to share content, the library can capture accurate usage statistics. Also, providing references increases awareness of this type of information and how it can be used as search clues for retrieving content.
- OER is another option that is gaining traction in post-secondary institutions. OER allows for more flexibility and versatility of instruction, as the instructor can pick and choose what works for them and their teaching activities.
This module included some basic information about accessibility:
- Visual - screen readers, considerations of font and colour variances
- Hearing - save chat transcript, consideration synchronous vs. asynchronous courses and how that might effective the needs of your students. Ask yourself, what arrangements need to be made in advance?
