Blog Post 3

Your discussion on Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is well-structured and effectively highlights how flexible teaching methods can support diverse learners. I appreciate how you broke down the three core principles—engagement, representation, and action/expression—and provided concrete examples of their application in both physical and digital learning spaces. Your mention of Kahoot and captioned videos as tools to enhance accessibility is particularly relevant.

Your section on Ensuring Accessibility in Online Settings also resonated with me. The focus on user-friendly navigation, captioning, platform compatibility, and alternative formats is crucial for creating an inclusive learning environment. I especially liked the reference to Ngubane-Mokiwa (2016) regarding keyboard navigation and alt text—it’s great to see academic sources backing up your points.

The Ethical Challenges of EdTech section raises important concerns about data privacy, digital equity, and monetization in EdTech platforms. Your mention of Regan & Jesse (2018) adds credibility to your argument, and I agree that educators should advocate for platforms that prioritize student privacy and open-access resources.

Finally, your reflections in Applying UDL and Accessibility Principles provide a strong personal touch. I appreciate how you contrasted positive and negative experiences with accessibility in online courses. Your example about PDF readings being formatted incorrectly for screen readers is a great reminder that small design choices can have a big impact on learners. Your suggestion that universities conduct regular accessibility checks is both practical and necessary.

Overall, this is a well-researched and thought-provoking post! One small suggestion would be to further elaborate on potential solutions for EdTech ethical concerns, such as specific policies or best practices that institutions could adopt. Looking forward to more of your insights!