Learn to create accessible descriptions for interactive resources. Master state and responsive descriptions for non-visual learners.
Learn to create accessible descriptions for interactive resources. Master state and responsive descriptions for non-visual learners.
Dive into the innovative world of description design for interactive learning resources. This course, created by experts at PhET Interactive Simulations, teaches you how to make digital learning tools accessible to learners who are blind or visually impaired. Over 41 hours, you'll master the Description Design Framework, learning to create both static and dynamic state descriptions, as well as responsive descriptions that capture real-time changes. Through hands-on design tasks and peer evaluations, you'll develop skills in inclusive design, web accessibility, and user experience. Perfect for educators, designers, and accessibility advocates looking to enhance digital learning for all.
Instructors:
English
What you'll learn
Define description and auditory display for interactive learning resources
Illustrate understanding of non-visual experiences in web-based interactives
Recognize and evaluate how state and responsive descriptions create an interactive story
Apply the Description Design Framework to create accessible interactive content
Design static and dynamic state descriptions for various interactive elements
Create responsive descriptions that communicate real-time changes in interactives
Skills you'll gain
This course includes:
4.98 Hours PreRecorded video
27 quizzes
Access on Mobile, Tablet, Desktop
FullTime access
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There are 5 modules in this course
This course introduces an innovative description design framework for creating accessible interactive learning resources. Students learn to design descriptions for non-visual access, focusing on state descriptions (static and dynamic) and responsive descriptions. The curriculum covers inclusive design principles, web accessibility, and best practices in description design. Through a series of modules, learners analyze visual designs, draft descriptions, and evaluate their effectiveness. The course emphasizes practical application, with students working on a chosen interactive throughout. By the end, participants will be equipped to create engaging, accessible descriptions for a variety of interactive learning tools.
Introduction to Description Design
Module 1 · 8 Hours to complete
State Descriptions: An Overview and Design Patterns for Static States
Module 2 · 7 Hours to complete
State Descriptions Continued: Design Patterns for Dynamic States and Description Design Iteration
Module 3 · 8 Hours to complete
Responsive Descriptions
Module 4 · 3 Hours to complete
Putting it All Together
Module 5 · 12 Hours to complete
Fee Structure
Payment options
Financial Aid
Instructors
Advancing Accessibility in STEM Education through PhET Interactive Simulations
Dr. Emily Moore serves as the Director of Research and Accessibility for the PhET Interactive Simulations project at the University of Colorado Boulder, where she focuses on enhancing simulation design and accessibility for diverse learners. Her research explores how students engage with simulations and the impact on their learning experiences. Dr. Moore leads initiatives to develop multimodal simulations that incorporate alternative input methods, auditory descriptions, and sonification, making PhET simulations accessible to students with visual or mobility impairments. Her efforts have culminated in the creation of PhET's first simulations designed specifically for blind students. With over 30 publications in science education, educational technology, and accessibility, she also contributes to teacher professional development and collaborates with K-12 educators and higher education faculty to create effective classroom activities available on the PhET website.
Inclusive Design Researcher and Advocate for Accessible STEM Education
Taliesin L. Smith is an inclusive design researcher and designer with PhET Interactive Simulations at the University of Colorado Boulder, where she focuses on enhancing accessibility in interactive STEM learning tools. She holds a Master's Degree in Inclusive Design from OCAD University, which she obtained in 2016, and has extensive experience in web accessibility and front-end web development. Taliesin is passionate about addressing the design challenges posed by highly interactive systems and values the insights gained from users who benefit from the inclusive features she develops. Her work includes implementing accessibility strategies for PhET simulations, ensuring that students with diverse needs can effectively engage with educational content. Beyond her professional pursuits, Taliesin enjoys hiking and baking elaborate cakes, reflecting her creative spirit both in and out of the design studio. Her commitment to inclusive design not only enhances user experiences but also contributes to a more equitable learning environment in STEM education.
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