Making your module usable and accessible

Although Blackboard has developed the new Ultra interface to be more accessible and usable for students, there are still opportunities to improve the usability and accessibility of your module in order to enhance students' learning experiences.

We achieve usability by understanding and designing for the user, their needs, task and context. Incorporating usability principles into the design and development of of your module will minimise the cognitive load for the student allowing them to focus on the learning process.

Making module learning content and assessment accessible and usable reflects Jisc’s Principles of good assessment and feedback Principle two: “Support the personalised needs of learners by being accessible, inclusive and compassionate“

Making your module usable

• Find out how usability can facilitate more effective and inclusive student learning

• Find out how to apply usability principles to your module

Making your module accessible

According to the Digital Experience Insights Survey 2023, 18% of Ulster University students declared an impairment, health condition or learning difference, it is therefore important to use Blackboard to make learning materials accessible.

• We have compiled guidance to make your content more accessible

• For students with a RAR you can set accommodations, exceptions and exemptions in Blackboard

• You can also make your content accessible with Ally

• You can adapt the time students have access to resources using Adaptive Release