Creating inclusive learning experiences is not just about accessibility; it’s about fostering a sense of belonging where every student can thrive. In virtual environments, the possibilities for inclusion are vast, but they require intentional design and thoughtful facilitation.
At the heart of inclusive education is a commitment to these principles:
- Student-Centered: Every learner is different. Tailor support to individual needs rather than applying a one-size-fits-all approach.
- Curious: Ask students what works best for them instead of making assumptions based on previous experiences.
- Strengths-Based: Focus on what students can do and how they best contribute.
- Iterative: Check in regularly to see what’s working and adjust along the way.
- Grounded in Universal Design for Learning (UDL): Offer multiple ways for students to engage, learn, and contribute - beneficial for all students, not just those with identified disabilities.
Below are practical strategies and virtual campus tools to support learners with a range of needs.
Supporting Students with Hearing Impairments
Use Built-In Tools for Accessibility
- Enable speech-to-text for live transcription: Encourage students to turn this feature on so they can follow along more easily.
- Speak clearly and slowly: Keep sentences short and allow for the natural delay in captioning (often up to 40 seconds).
- Pause for processing: Build in extra time for students to read captions and respond.
Promote Clear Communication
- Use chat for key instructions: Post questions, reminders, and directions in the chat so students can reference them later.
- Leverage web boards: Display written instructions, prompts, and shared documents for clarity and collaboration.
- Encourage chat participation: Let students choose between chatting and speaking out loud.
Share Written Instructions
- During the session: Display steps on slides, web boards, or in the chat.
- After the session: Share a PDF or Google Doc version of the content for reference.
Supporting Students with Learning or Behavioral Disabilities or Mental Health Challenges
These strategies are especially useful for students with ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, anxiety, or other challenges that affect focus and social interaction.
Simplify the Virtual Environment
- Adjust graphics settings: Reduce draw distance and avatar complexity to minimize visual distractions.
- Modify audio settings: Lower environmental noise and disable join/leave sounds to create a calmer environment.
Support Participation
- Use plain language: Keep instructions clear and visually supported.
- Allow processing time: Wait at least 30 seconds after asking a question before moving on.
- Check in and remind: Offer regular reminders of upcoming tasks and check progress along the way.
- Create inclusive norms: Emphasize that all ideas are welcome and encourage participation in whatever format works best: voice or chat.
- Schedule micro-breaks: Short stretch breaks, virtual movement activities, or mindfulness moments can help reset energy and attention.
Supporting Students with Visual Impairments
Adjust Settings for Accessibility
- Lower draw distance: Reduces clutter and focuses visual attention.
- Increase font and interface size: Offer instructions on how to adjust these settings.
Collaborate with Screen Reader Users
- Check for compatibility: Virbela works with some screen readers—ask students if they’re using one and what support they need.
- Describe visuals verbally: Whenever images or infographics are used, provide descriptions aloud or in the chat.
Share Accessible Materials
- Use accessible formats: Ensure project documents and slides are screen-reader friendly (e.g., alt text, accessible PDFs or Google Docs).
- Use large, readable fonts: Minimum 20-point font on slides; keep text minimal and clear.
- Ensure strong color contrast: Use accessible design tools to check your slide color schemes.
Final Thoughts
Inclusivity doesn’t require perfection. It requires presence, flexibility, and partnership with students. By asking questions, using the tools available in your virtual campus, and remaining open to feedback, you can create a space where every student has the opportunity to succeed.
If you’re using Virbela as your virtual learning environment, many of these accessibility features can be customized in the platform settings or enhanced through common collaboration tools like Google Docs and web boards.
Let’s continue building a virtual world where everyone can belong, and learn together.
Big thanks to Wavemakers for the inspiration behind this post — your ideas keep the creativity flowing!
