Mainstream teacher training in accessibility
What are student teachers in England currently taught about accessibility, and how can we get training on accessible curriculum materials into mainstream teacher training?
Title: Mainstream teacher training in accessibility
Authors: Kate Flynn, RNIB; Publisher: RNIB.
Background
In 2013 to 2014 RNIB carried out desk research to investigate what student teachers in England are currently taught about accessibility, and to identify how to get training on accessible curriculum materials into mainstream teacher training. The eventual goal is to improve the training all teachers receive, and in turn improve the learning experience of many students with print disabilities, including visually impaired and dyslexic learners.
Key messages
- Learners with print disabilities may encounter many educators who are under-informed about accessibility.
- Teachers’ Standards state that teachers must have a clear understanding of the needs of pupils with disabilities, but the content of training courses is left to the discretion of individual institutions.
- A video message about accessible resources, delivered directly to convenors of teacher training courses for use with their students, could help meet this training need.