Digital Accessibility - How inclusive is the online learning environment?

We are delighted to share further details about day two of our International Enhancement Conference, which will focus specifically on supporting equality, diversity and inclusion to develop resilient and successful learning communities.

Joining us in conversation on the afternoon of day two, for a session titled 'Digital Accessibility - How inclusive is the online learning environment?', we are pleased to welcome Kellie Mote (Jisc) and Dr Mhairi Thurston (Abertay University).

Kellie Mote is Subject Specialist: Strategy (Accessibility) at Jisc, with over 20 years’ experience working in inclusive education and assistive technology. Her role at Jisc involves providing strategic advice and guidance to help members ensure their digital content is accessible to everyone. Kellie also manages a large accessibility community of practice that enables Jisc members to share challenges and solutions. Her interests and experience include assistive technology, needs assessment and inclusive strategies.

Dr Mhairi Thurston is a Senior Lecturer in Counselling at Abertay University with over 25 years’ experience in education. A registered, accredited counsellor with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP), she was appointed to the BACP Board of Governors in 2011. In 2018, she became Chair of the Research Governance Committee for BACP. Her particular research interest is the social and emotional effects of acquired sight loss. Additionally, she is interested in wider issues surrounding disability, equality and inclusion.

Kellie and Mhairi will also be joined by Gemma Lumsdaine (Abertay University). Gemma is a Sports Development and Coaching student and keen activist for disability rights. She sits on the Scottish Disability Sport Young People’s Panel and acts as an ambassador for the disabled children’s charity Whizz-Kidz.

We look forward to an engaging and informative discussion, as Kellie, Mhairi and Gemma exchange ideas and experiences around digital accessibility and inclusion in our online learning communities. We hope you can join us.