The ACT is committed to providing high-quality qualifications that are accessible to everyone. Our learning materials are available in a range of formats and our assessments can be supported by our reasonable adjustments.
This is an on-going process, as we continue to improve our accessibility offering and keep on top of the latest technologies to support these needs. However, we have already made a number of improvements to both the learning resources and the assessments, and here we talk through what we have done so far.
Our learning resources are available in several different formats so students can learn in a way that best suits them. These formats include:
• interactive online readings
• recorded webinars to supplement the interactive readings with the functionality to display subtitles
• podcasts to enhance the learning experience - we can provide transcripts on request
• online activity questions and, where applicable, progress tests - we can provide PDF versions on request
• PDF readings that are designed for simple navigation and document accessibility
• eBook formats which can be used with assistive technology so that the colour and size of the text and background colours can be changed, and with the use of text to speak.
To ensure the study site is accessible, we strive to be consistent in the use of icons and in our page layout. We are also looking into how we use an appropriate contrast between fonts and backgrounds within the site.
You can view the learning resource accessibility policy here.
To make sure students have a fair opportunity when sitting their assessments, the ACT has published a reasonable adjustment policy and is able to provide a range of adjustments, subject to approval, some of which are listed below*:
• extra time
• supervised breaks
• large font/contrast background of the assessment material
• support from reader/scribe technologies
• modification to equipment where necessary.
*If you think that you might need any of these reasonable adjustments, or anything else to make the assessment accessible to you, please first read the reasonable adjustment policy and then contact the assessment team.
Our exam platform allows our students to adjust how the exam appears on their screen to suit their needs. This includes being able to adjust the background colour, text size and colour, as well as the contrast.
Having our exams online allows students the flexibility to choose a location that suits them, away from the distractions and noise that can often be found within traditional exam halls. We also have ‘on-demand’ exams which means there is more flexibility on dates and times.
At the ACT, we are always looking at ways to improve our accessibility and the various different ways that technology can support those who have additional requirements. We are open to suggestions from those who may need reasonable adjustments.
If you would like to discuss your accessibility needs for learning, please reach out to the learning team and for assessment, the assessment team, both will be happy to talk to you about your options.
