Glossary

Scenarios are relatively abstract descriptions of a learning and teaching experience describing the interactions of the learners and teachers with each other, tools and resources, the learning context and environment, etc. They are intended to include innovation in technology supported learning and teaching, in one form or other.

Screen readers are audio interfaces. Rather than displaying web content visually for users in a "window" or screen on the monitor, screen readers convert text into synthesized speech so that users can listen to the content (Designing for Screen Reader Compatibility, 2016).

A form of instruction that proceeds based on the learner's response; for example, a self-paced course enables a learner to start and finish as quickly or as slowly as they like.

The process of improving the terms for individuals and groups to take part in society. Social inclusion aims to empower poor and marginalized people to take advantage of burgeoning global opportunities. It ensures that people have a voice in decisions which affect their lives and that they enjoy equal access to markets, services, and political, social, and physical spaces.

This is a software that takes audio content and transcribes it into written words in a word processor or other display destination. This software reduces the amount of manual typing required when managing material. It is also helpful for individuals who struggle with fine motor tasks, such as using pencils, pens, and keyboards.

Framework to support a course, presented as a document. It usually includes the purpose of the course, target audience, objectives, course structure and contents, duration, assessment strategies, etc.

Assessment (often taking place at the end of a course or programme) leading to the attribution of a grade or a mark to the student. The results of summative assessment determine whether a student progresses to the next stage of the programme or, on completion, gains an award. Summative assessments are primarily designed to sum up what students have achieved after a period of time. Summative assessments include standardized tests delivered by examination, final projects, assignments, portfolios, etc.

The Survey activity offers a number of verified survey instruments and question types, useful in assessing and stimulating learning in online environments. Teachers can use these to gather data from their students that will help them learn about their class and reflect on their own teaching.

Existing or occurring at the same time.

A general term used to describe forms of education, instruction, and learning that occur at the same time, but not in the same place. The term is most commonly applied to various forms of televisual, digital, and online learning in which students learn from instructors, colleagues, or peers in real time, but not in person. It is most commonly used in the context of online or digital learning. Participants interact at the same time. For example, educational videoconferences, interactive webinars, workshops, chat-based online discussions, and lectures that are broadcast at the same time as they are delivered, would all be considered forms of synchronous learning (adapted from: The Glossary of Education Reform, 2014).