eXtended Reality and Accessibility in Online and Distance Learning: Exploring the Opportunities and Challenges

Authors

  • Fridolin Wild Institute of Educational Technology, The Open University, UK
  • Tim Coughlan Institute of Educational Technology, The Open University, UK
  • Sarah Davies School of Environment, Earth and Ecosystem Sciences, The Open University, UK
  • Rebecca Shepherd 3 Faculty of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, The Open University, UK
  • Trevor Collins Knowledge Media Institute, The Open University, UK
  • Aitch King Learning Experience and Technology, The Open University, UK
  • Jade Matos Carew Learning Experience and Technology, The Open University, UK

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.56198/U6C0WGXDZ

Keywords:

XR, Accessibility, Online and Distance Learning

Abstract

Novel eXtended Reality (XR) learning activities are being introduced, planned, and explored in teaching at many, if not most Higher Education institutions. However, there are widespread concerns regarding how these innovations can be used in ways that are accessible and inclusive. A lot of questions are being posed, and only parts of the answers are available. Within this contribution, we review opportunities and challenges associated with XR learning in the more narrow field of Online and Distance Learning (ODL). ODL is the EdTech sector which, through its challenges of 24/7 and global availability, often pioneers technologies ready for the mainstream. For this, we first provide an overview of accessibility needs in a diverse student population, focusing on disabled students), to then review the legal and regulatory context which frame the obligations of institutions. We reflect on what already exists and on potential contributions to the development of XR and its use by all. We introduce three heterogeneous examples to illustrate the use of XR learning in ODL, to then describe how legal and regulatory obligations translate to the institutional context. We discuss gaps and open problems, and outline future work possible.

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Published

2024-06-03

How to Cite

Wild, F., Coughlan, T., Davies, S., Shepherd, R., Collins, T., King, A., & Carew, J. M. (2024). eXtended Reality and Accessibility in Online and Distance Learning: Exploring the Opportunities and Challenges. Immersive Learning Research - Academic, 1(1), 153–163. https://doi.org/10.56198/U6C0WGXDZ

Issue

2024 10th International Conference of the Immersive Learning Research Network (iLRN) Proceedings - Selected Academic Contributions

Section

Conference Proceeedings

Categories

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