Essex ACL - Broadening horizons with blended learning - technology toolkit for foreign language tutors

As part of an LSIS Regional Response Fund project, Essex Adult Community Learning (ACL) has created a toolkit. The toolkit provides training for foreign language tutors in producing digital resources which combine audio, video, text and communication activities. The toolkit which is now an integral part of a blended learning language course, has also developed tutors' skills in using technology for teaching and learning. The main aim has also been to provide an alternative and flexible method of delivery, especially where funding cuts have impacted on the cost of running taught courses.

Libraries and alternative formats research

Good practice pointers

Guide to obtaining textbooks in alternative formats

Digital text benefits a wide range of learners, particularly disabled learners. For those with a visual impairment, it can be magnified or read out loud using synthetic speech. It can be navigated by heading and subheading levels, and text colours and backgrounds can be altered, both useful features for dyslexic learners. Definitions of unfamiliar words can be checked without leaving the text.

Libraries and alternative formats research

This series of five documents is a result of research carried out with a grant from CLAUD (a group of HE librarians in South West England who are working to help create libraries accessible to users with a disability). The research involved over 60 responses representing 49 different Higher Education Institutes (HEIs).

Getting information in alternative formats

For many learners, course materials in standard print format are difficult to use. Getting these in alternative formats could make a big difference but how do you find out what the options are? This guide seeks to provide an overview of the alternative formats available and how you can create them.

Online communication and promotion of research expertise report

Examining how universities use online channels to promote their research expertise and making recommendations for how institutions can improve this.

Case study: Unified communication system enhances opportunities to develop employability skills

Case study about how East Berkshire College rolled out Microsoft Lync 2013 Unified Communication™ system to enhance opportunities to develop employability skills.

Scholarly communication: the journey towards openness

Conference report: Jisc CNI meeting 2014: Opening up scholarly communications. 10-11 July 2014, Bristol