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Subject Area Accessibility Studies for Communication Studies & Journalism
Posted by Andy Freed | Start the discussion
Subject Area Accessibility Studies for Communication Studies & Journalism
Abstract
Highly visual or auditory course content that includes commercials, static images, movies, and/or television shows is a challenge to students who have impairments to their eyesight or hearing in Communication and Journalism courses. These tools are used to analyze both nonverbal and verbal dimensions and behaviors which connect course content to teaching tools used in the class. Our purpose is to allow students the ability to identify and perceive various communication actions such as eye behavior, gestures, spatial representations, verbal messages, etc. A part of this challenge includes our face-to-face and online classes. Essentially, we need to find a method whereby in our attempt to make content accessible, we do not provide too much description that it leads students to specific conclusions to the assignment. Too much provided inference would reduce the analytical and critical thinking aspects from the purpose of using such assignments for students. We want students to demonstrate what they have learned about visual communication, nonverbal behaviors, and auditory/vocal components (pitch, inflection, rate, pause, etc.). In this study we have identified specific tools that can be implemented in order to create a supportive and successful learning environment for all learners.
Full report: Best Practices for Communication Final Report
Chris Kernion, Stacie Williams, & Jon Arakaki
Communication and Journalism Subject Area Accessibility Study Group
Faculty reflection on the study
- Chris Kernion, Communication Studies instructor (Spring 2016 study) – 1:37
- Stacie Williams, Communication Studies instructor (Spring 2016 study) – 3:11
About Andy Freed
I'm the Director of Learning Technology & Innovation (LTI!), where I oversee our infrastructure, technical support, and online student services teams. I've been with the College since 2001 and have worked in several positions, from tech... more »
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