Unlocking Potential Using free and Open Source technology to create accessible and engaging e-learning resources Laura Goodacre Emma Millard 26 March 2009
Unlocking Potential The JISC TechDis Advisory Service TechDis is the leading educational advisory service providing advice and guidance on technology and disability to promote an accessible and inclusive experience for students and staff. TechDis is a JISC funded advisory service (Joint Information Systems Committee) based in York, that: Advises funding bodies and policy makers. Provides guidance to strategic partners and intermediaries. Provides advice for management, front line and specialist staff. Provides effective resources for practitioners.
Unlocking Potential TechDis covers Higher, Further and Specialist Education, across the UK. Our remit is neither focused mainly around technology nor around disability but around good practice in teaching and learning that inherently broadens and enhances the student experience for all students. Help staff understand that inclusive practice is not hard – just common sense. The JISC TechDis Advisory Service
Unlocking Potential Resources Publications TechDis Accessibility Essentials Series Staff packs Upwardly Mobile Technology Change for Inclusion – coming soon
Unlocking Potential Online Resources All publications available to download Free and Open Source Software list Creation of Learning Resources Resources
Unlocking Potential Hosted Resources Assistive Technology and Assistive and Augmentative Communication in the UK SimDis Watch Words AccessApps
Unlocking Potential Robobraille RoboBraille – Simply a Word document to one of their addresses e.g. You receive a high quality synthetic speech MP3 to download. Fast service – files usually arrive within a few minutes.
Unlocking Potential DSpeech Allows electronic text to be converted into audio files using a computerised voice. Computerised voices arent for everyone! But they do add a degree of flexibility for those who do not like or have difficulty with reading, or who want to listen whilst doing other things. A demo is available at under Reading Tools
Unlocking Potential Audacity Simple sound editing software Good introductory tutorial at under Reading Tools Can add introductory music and other effects simply Could be used to easily create audio versions of documentation
Unlocking Potential Xerte Free learning object creator that produces accessible learning objects. Online version at Example learning objects:
Unlocking Potential Xerte –where to find content Images Flickr ( Stock Xchange ( Videos (including Flash) Camstudio Jing ( Screentoaster ( Audio Audacity, DSpeech, Robobraille
Unlocking Potential Contact Us JISC TechDis Helpdesk Telephone: