[nabs] Pros/Cons of Online learning

Mon Aug 1 07:41:39 EDT 2011

Hello,

It is not so much different versions of JAWS that cause the accessibility
issue, but the use of Macromedia flash in programs. The MML software is a
good platform for a sighted learner, however, where it ghets kind of sticky
is with a blind learner who is using JAWS. Though you can access parts of
the MML platform (those written in HTML) the meat of the software (where
assignments are completed) is completely inaccessible, because it is written
in flash rather than HTML. Because the program is written in flash, which is
little more than animated graphics, JAWS will not read what is on the
screen, requiring a blind student to use a live reader for the content on
the sdreen. I had to use a reader when using this platform for the very
reasons I mentioned above and it worked well, but I had to complete
assignments and such according to the reader's schedule rather than my own.
The accessibility of MML and other learning platforms like it is definitely
a con to online learnig. In courses that use these kinds of software,
typically talking to the professer is strongly recommended and alternative
assignments can be made, or at least that has been my experience.

Alicia

From: nabs-bounces at acb.org [mailto:nabs-bounces at acb.org] On Behalf Of linda
green
Sent: Monday, August 01, 2011 5:56 AM
To: nabs at acb.org
Subject: Re: [nabs] Pros/Cons of Online learning

Guys-
As I have been reading the issues of accessiblity of Jaws with MML - this
seems like one of the cons with online learning accessibility. I use
Zoomtext and have not had too many issues with accessing info.

So does having different editions of Jaws affect access to online class?

  _____  

From: 201park2011 at comcast.net
To: nabs at acb.org
Date: Sat, 30 Jul 2011 01:29:56 -0400
Subject: Re: [nabs] Pros/Cons of Online learning

Rehab counseling....just starting August 24th.  It is an accellerated
program, 16 months! classes run in 8 week blocks.  Each semester has two
blocks.  I'll have two classes the first 8 weeks, and three the next.  I've
never taken three classes in an 8 week period before. It is a lot of work
putting a 16 weeks worth of class in to only 8 weeks; I can only imagine how
it will be trying to do three classes in such a short time frame.  I must
make a schedule and stick to it.  I am not working so I have plenty of time
to schedule and use.  Good luck with finishing your degree and finding a job
you will like.

Rhonda

----- Original Message ----- 

From: Liz Bottner <mailto:liziswhatis at hotmail.com>  

To: 'Discussion list for <mailto:nabs at acb.org>  NABS,National Alliance of
Blind Students.' 

Sent: Friday, July 29, 2011 10:06 PM

Subject: Re: [nabs] Pros/Cons of Online learning

Rhonda,

    Are you doing Rehab counseling or teaching? I am in my last year of my
Masters in rehab teaching at Northern Illinois University. 

Take care, and good luck in grad school!

Liz Bottner

Guiding Eyes Graduate Council

GEB Voicemail: 800-942-0149 Ext. 2531

E-mail: 

liziswhatis at hotmail.com
Visit my LiveJournal: http://unsilenceddream.livejournal.com
<http://unsilenceddream.livejournal.com/> 

Follow me on Twitter: 

http://www.twitter.com/lizbot

  _____  

From: nabs-bounces at acb.org [mailto:nabs-bounces at acb.org] On Behalf Of Rhonda
Partain
Sent: Friday, July 29, 2011 3:56 PM
To: Discussion list for NABS,National Alliance of Blind Students.
Subject: Re: [nabs] Pros/Cons of Online learning

I received my undergrad degree from Liberty University they have total
online programs.  Blackboard works well with Jaws.  There is a large number
of students so sometimes it took a few days to hear from disability
services.  The classes run in 8 week cycles, so there is a lot of work to be
completed in a short amount of time.  I didn't like having no personal
contact with another human.  Most questions were answered via email.  I did
have one instructor who put his phone number on the contact information and
he proved to be a great help when I couldn't access the text in a Powerpoint
presentation.  One needs to be self disciplined and keep a schedule if
online learning is to be a success.  I am now taking or rather will be
starting masters in  rehabilitation classes at the University of Kentucky.
They have a totally online program.  I have spoken with the director of the
program and the disability office person several times.  I love being able
to talk to another person versus waiting for an email response.  On line
learning is great, no worries about transportation, work any time. If I wake
up at 3 in the morning and can't sleep I always have some reading I can do.
If you learn best via interaction with others, listening to a lecture,
interacting with fellow students then online learning may not be the best
choice for you.

 Rhonda Partain

----- Original Message ----- 

From: Icewolf <mailto:icewolf2011 at gtwebdesign.us>  

To: Discussion list for <mailto:nabs at acb.org>  NABS,National Alliance of
Blind Students. 

Sent: Friday, July 29, 2011 4:24 PM

Subject: Re: [nabs] Pros/Cons of Online learning

Hello,
I am currently pursuing an online bachelors degree from DeVry University in
Computer Information Systems.  There are some defininte challenges.  One
challenge is not being in a class with others and the Professor who can help
if you have problems with accessibility issues.  Another one is that it may
take a couple of days for the professor to get back to you if you have
questions.  There are some things that I do really like.  One is being able
to work on assignments during the week on my own time.  Another is I get to
use the computer or other devices that I am comfortable with and already
know.  
Hope this helps some,
Greg Wocher

Yesterday is forever gone, tomorrow may never come, today is the day of all
days.

On 7/29/2011 12:03 PM, linda green wrote: 

Hey Guys:
I wanted to get your views on online learning (for those who take classes
online or don't take online classes).
What have been challenges or successes in accessing classes online?

Thanks,
linda

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