Task: Collaboration online
Group collaboration using on-line networking software, forums in Blackboard or other Web 2.0 type applications has become far more common. It is also possible to use webcams and Live Messenger or Skype with a group.
Facebook, sometimes known as a social networking site, can also be used as a forum for discussing work as well as setting up meetings. The Captcha, (used for joining) has improved accessibility with an audio option. The RNIB have a Facebook group and use Twitter.
Useful advice about "How to use Facebook without Losing Your Job over it" with guidance about security.
Students are sometimes asked to make web pages to share ideas even though they may not be studying on a technology based course. This task was offered to a group of students studying French and one student, who was blind, was able to use Course Genie (now known as Wimba Create) that is a better option than just using Microsoft Word in a Save as web page as it offers improved navigation if styles are used. There are many companies such Google that offer free web site design wizards but they are rarely keyboard or screen reader accessible.
There are numerous guides for making accessible websites but this is much harder when using other people's templates although some services offer accessible themes such as WordPress. TASI offers advice about images and design.
Issues students have with this task
- Facebook has its uses but you also waste time!
- Organising timetables and e-mails
- Web page creation from Microsoft Word
- Forums not good for collaborative writing.
- Collaboration problems in projects
- Hearing in groups
- Trying new software
- Blackboard for collaboration
- Keeping in touch when revising
- Using rich text editors for collaborating online
- Checking images are accurate
- e-mail for project work
- Spell checking on Facebook
- Captcha log-ins are inaccessible
