An Accessibility Audit of WebCT

Dey Alexander, Usability Analyst, IT Services, Monash University, Melbourne, 3800. 
Email: dey.alexander@its.monash.edu.au

Keywords

WebCT, accessibility, disability, discrimination, DDA, WCAG, Section 508, learning management system, LMS

Abstract

WebCT is a learning management system that provides an integrated environment for online teaching and learning. Many Australian universities are already using WebCT or similar systems, and others are considering doing so in order to meet the growing demand for online course delivery and support.

Decisions on purchasing learning management systems are generally based on a range of criteria including pedagogical issues, flexibility and ease of use, and licensing and running costs, but often without explicitly considering the need for the system to be accessible to disabled students. As a result, universities may be providing materials and resources that students with certain types of disabilities may not be able to access, thereby exposing themselves to the possibility of litigation.

This paper summarises the results of an accessibility audit of WebCT. It outlines a range of accessibility problems that have been identified with the product and suggests strategies to ensure that universities understand and are able to meet their legal obligations.