Introduction

The JISC TechDis Accessible IT Practice support programme is a collection of staff development resources grouped into twelve topics that underpin accessible practice with IT. Programme registration entitles your organisation to 90 minutes of consultancy time from a JISC TechDis Accredited ITQ Trainer and unlimited access to the full range of programme resources.
This flexible programme can be delivered in a variety of ways and with a diverse range of staff as indicated below.
In-house training in e-learning approaches:

• Face-to-face training for one-off staff development sessions or structured programs;
• Online training for one-off sessions or structured programs;
• New staff induction programmes;
• Learner induction programmes;
• Teacher training programmes.

In-house training in accessibility issues for:

• Quality managers;
• Staff development officers;
• Teaching staff;
• Learner support staff;
• Disability specialists.

The programme has 12 different topics so participants can engage with those that are most useful and relevant for them. The topics are:

• User Fundamentals
• Text-to-Speech software
• Improving Productivity using IT
• Using the Internet
• Word processing Software
• Using Audio Software
• Spreadsheet Software
• Presentation Software
• Website Software
• Xerte Software
• EBooks
• Web tools

Ten of these topics have been mapped to City and Guilds ITQ units for accessible IT practice. This means that individuals may work towards and apply for a nationally recognised qualification should they wish to do so.
There is no obligation on organisations to do the ITQ nor is JISC TechDis responsible for verification or assessment of evidence produced.

What’s included in the programme?

The programme contains materials, resources, examples and helpful documents for 12 different topics.  In addition, registration includes 90 minutes of expert consultancy and support for your organisation from a JISC TechDis Accredited ITQ Trainer.
For each of the 12 topics there are:

Nutshell Notes

The Nutshell Notes provide a quick summary and are an excellent starting point to help you consider and reflect on:

• Why does it matter?
• Who in the organisation needs to be aware?
• What are the key things I should know?
• What are the links I should explore?

Training Presentations

Training materials with accompanying activities and voice over descriptions to help you deliver training to your staff.

Samples Resources Folder

Examples and ideas to show how each topic relates to various contexts.

ITQ Resource folder

A folder full of examples, criteria, evidence suggestions and useful documents relating to ITQ Units.

Filling the Gaps

An interactive learning object to help you fill the gaps of general IT skills and knowledge.

Example

You may have a look at the Word Processing Free Taster to see the how this information is displayed.

Fees & registration

The fee bands shown below are currently exempt from VAT.
Remember, the fee includes 90 minutes of consultancy time from a JISC TechDis Accredited ITQ Trainer.
Less than 100 fte staff - £225
100 to 249 staff - £325
250 to 500 staff - £425
More than 500 staff - email JISC TechDis for details.
Fees become renewable after 12 months. See the Terms and Conditions.

Purchasing the programme

You may purchase the programme online using a credit card. The process is automated and run via the Higher Education Academy booking system. This involves two stages that are normally completed in a few minutes:

1. the person registering the organisation needs to locate (or add) their contact details to the My Academy system. This should bring up your organisation's details.
2. as a registered user of My Academy you proceed to purchase the course as a booking.

If your organisation is not registered on My Academy, you will be invited to click the radio button adjacent to "My institution is not shown above" and you will be contacted via email. This process may add a short delay whilst emails are exchanged and, in busy times, may not be completed the same day.

To start the process click on the Registration Page.

What is ITQ for Accessible IT Practice?

ITQ stands for Information Technology Qualification. It is an up-to-date, nationally recognised IT user qualification tailored to business and individual needs. These certificates are accredited and awarded by the City and Guilds.
Visit http://e-skills.com/  for more information about ITQ.
JISC Techdis have mapped ten of the support programme topics to ITQ Units to form ITQ for Accessible IT Practice. By working closely with City and Guilds this unique qualification has become one of the most highly respected adaptations of ITQ.

The essential element of ITQ for Accessible IT Practice

ITQ for Accessible IT Practice draws on 10 ITQ Units and the relevant criteria relating to those Units. There are three core units which everyone must complete. There are seven optional units and learners will need to complete at least 2 of these for a Level 2 Certificate and at least three for a Level 3 Certificate.
All learners need to attain all the criteria for each Unit undertaken. However, evidence produced for ITQ for Accessible IT Practice must also demonstrate a level of skill and understanding of accessible IT practice. This 'layer' on top of the ITQ criteria is essential and must be evidenced.
The units are explained in more detail by clicking on the appropriate links below.

The Core Units

The Optional Units

 

The Core Units

To ensure everyone took a fundamental approach when considering accessible IT practice 3 Core Units were selected. These are:

• User Fundamentals
• Text-to-Speech software (Bespoke)
• Improving productivity using IT (mandatory)

User Fundamentals
This unit looks at basics in using a computer including how to effectively use all the accessibility options within a Windows or Mac environment. It also looks at the way we access the Internet and incorporates how to use browser plug-ins to improve an IT user's browsing experience. In addition, the use of Access Apps, (free portable assistive applications that run off a memory stick), is brought into this Unit. The User Fundamentals Guide (see Programme Resources) provides prompts for 10 tasks, the great majority of which covers the required criteria for User Fundamentals Unit. The suggested evidence looks at the way we use computers and technology using keystrokes, screen readers or with limited colour vision.

Text-to-Speech software
This unit looks at a range of free, simple-to-use tools you can use to listen to documents and texts. This is a chance to explore ones you may already use, such as DSpeech or Robobraille, or you might have access to commercial versions such as Read Write Gold. Evidence for this Unit can cross reference to the Word Processing Unit. The Text-to-Speech Guide (see Programme Resources) provides prompts for 3 tasks where Text to Speech software has been used and analysis of the functions, features and successful output according to an IT user's needs.

Improving Productivity using IT
This unit draws all units together and it is the Mandatory Unit in ITQ. To gather evidence for this Unit you reflect on all stages of IT use from planning to use a piece of software for an intended purpose and for specific target audience, to implementing its use then reviewing to identify whether it has been successful and how it has made you or others more productive or efficient. The Improving Productivity Guide (in the Programme Resources) offers prompts to consider evidence produced for the remaining Units and link to reflection, analysis and evaluation of the process of using IT for a purpose.
The Programme Resources also contain learning materials to help fill the general IT knowledge and skills gaps.

The Optional Units

The selection of seven Optional Units was carefully made to acknowledge the different use of IT skills in various roles. Remember, you will need to complete 2 Optional Units if aiming for a Level 2 Certificate or 3 Units for a Level 3.
The Optional Units are:

• Word Processing software
• Presentations software
• Spreadsheet software
• Using the Internet
• Using Audio or Video
• Xerte software (Specialist)
• Website Software (Level 1)

Let's now look at these seven in a little more detail and see how an assessor can look for the 'layer'.

Word Processing
This unit looks for good word processing skills such as displaying, layouts, styles, editing and formatting but the additional 'layer' for ITQ for Accessible IT Practice is evidence of an understanding about producing documents that are as accessible as possible, especially if presenting them via a web interface. An assessor should ensure there's an understanding and skill in accessible word processing such as:

• Creating structured documents to include styles, headings, layouts
• Use of a Document Map and MindMap for visual interpretation of the document
• Contents table
• Captioned images and objects
• Suitably displayed content in tables for screen reader access
• Creating pdf documents with ReFlow functionality

For Level 3 the assessor is looking for the more advanced use of the word processing software and full use of its features and functions including embedding objects such as video, sound and other objects.

Presentations Software
This one is similar to the Word Processing Unit as it looks at creating and editing presentations, use of styles and how to use presentations in an accessible and supportive way. This Unit encourages the learner to look at various choices of presentation software to meet the needs of the IT user. An assessor should ensure there's an understanding and skill in creating accessible presentations such as:

• Structured presentations, using Master Slides and consistent elements.
• Purposeful and individualised navigation using action buttons
• How to present to an audience with a varying need for visual information.

For Level 3 the assessor is looking for the more advanced use of the presentation software and full use of its features and functions including the full and correct use of Notes Pages and embedding objects such as video and sound.

Spreadsheet
This unit looks for an understanding of the advanced functions and formulae of a spreadsheet including 'what if' analysis tools, pivot tables and scenarios but it also asks for an awareness of how information can be displayed in an ideal format to be accessible for users. An assessor should ensure there's an understanding and skill in creating spreadsheets and using the numeric functionality but it also looks for the ways colours, images, drop down boxes, slides can provide the IT user with a better graphical understanding of the numeric data. For Level 3 the assessor would need to see complex spreadsheets and those that include the use of forecasting tools within the software.

Using Internet
This unit is available for those who carry out web research and downloading on a regular basis. This Unit asks for more than the use of Google - it looks for sound skill in filtering and going beyond the existing portals and repositories.

Using Audio or Video Software
This unit recognises the skills in creating, editing and presenting sound files. Many resources and materials need to be available in audio format to support the IT user. An assessor should ensure there's an understanding and skill in capturing, editing and distributing sound files such as:

• Ensuring there's sufficient description within the sound file to provide visual clues.
• Providing a transcript for those unable to hear the sound file as intended.
• Selecting a way to distribute that would allow the IT user to adjust the settings for better listening.
• Providing a 'before' and 'after' file during the editing process.

For Level 3 the assessor is looking for more advanced use of sound capture and editing software, exploring accessible sound players and distributing easily using RSS feeds or podcast route.

Xerte software (specialist)
This is award winning free software that allows the IT user to create impressive and accessible presentations including text, images, video and interactive elements. This software offers templates and step-by-step instructions so exciting e-learning or training material can be produced very quickly. An assessor should ensure there's an understanding and skill in creating accessible Xerte objects such as:

• Avoiding lengthy panels of text requiring scrolling
• Appropriate use of images that convey messages i.e. contrast, resolution, clarity etc.
• Clarity of sound file recording used if used for a main purpose
• Readability fit for purpose and needs of the IT user.

For Level 3 the assessor is looking for more advanced use of the Xerte software with full use of its advanced templates such as creating and converting video, use of transcript reader, linking to YouTube and other video and animations, adding an RSS feed link and creating advanced hot spots diagrams.

Website Software (Level 1)
This unit looks at good practice associated with the creation of website creation and web-based materials so that they are accessible as possible. This Unit is ideal for anyone responsible for developing resources and materials for an online training area, creating a simple website or blog. An assessor should ensure there's an understanding and skill in creating websites such as:

• Presenting documents, images, sound and video files, alternate description, transcripts or alternative formats where possible.
• Presenting tabulated data in a way for screen readers to access the information logically and easily.
• Presenting guidance for the website visitor so he/she can adjust the experience to suit their needs.
• Testing the site for keystroke use, screen reader access and to identify accessibility issues.

This is only available at Level 1 within ITQ for Accessible IT Practice. It requires the learner to create linked web pages with content and external links and for it to be uploaded to the web using file transfer protocol. The 'layer' should be shown in the reflection within the personal statements accompanying the evidence of the website. Some of the evidence however can be gathered by using an online learning platform, blog or shared web space.

Advice for City and Guilds ITQ Centres

This programme is part of the JISC Techdis support package for inclusive teaching and learning. There is no obligation on organisations to do the ITQ nor is JISC TechDis responsible for verification or assessment of evidence produced.
For information about how to become a City and Guilds approved ITQ Centre see City and Guilds website.
If you need additional support for your assessor team, or if you are not a current City and Guilds ITQ approved centre, we have a recommended route through DawsonLoane. DawsonLoane is an approved City and Guilds ITQ centre who offer training, assessment and support for ITQ for Accessible IT Practice. Di Dawson can help support your assesors and verifiers so the quality of portfolio evidence is just right. Email Di Dawson.
Should you wish to offer accreditation to your staff, as a result of their training, this section provides information that may help your assessor team.

Choosing the level
Working with the Assessor
Supporting your Assessor Team

Choosing the Level

Generally the National Occupation Standards describe a Level 2 user as 'intermediate' and Level 3 user as 'advanced'. The standards suggest the level indicators for each Unit relating to contextual examples.
A Level 2 user might need some support from others or look for help or guidance for unfamiliar tasks, whereas a Level 3 user works independently, needs little help and might even support or train others in IT tasks, or produce documents and files of a sufficiently complex nature. Many IT users work at Level 2 on a day to day basis so selecting to study Level 3 means a definite move towards a higher and more complex use of software with the accompanying need for reflection, analysis and evaluation.
Regardless of the Level chosen there is a spiky profile permitted in ITQ. You will note that the User Fundamentals Unit is available up to Level 2 and the Website Software is at Level 1 regardless of Level being achieved. This is permitted according to the Rules of Combination. The requirements expect the Level studied to be dictated by the Improving Productivity using IT Unit i.e. the Mandatory Unit within ITQ. The level indicators are:

• Level 2: 'An intermediate user can plan and review their use of predefined or commonly used IT tools for activities that are at times non-routine or unfamiliar. As a result of reviewing their work, they will be able to devise solutions to use IT tools to improve productivity. Any aspect that is unfamiliar will require support and advice from other people.'
• Level 3: 'An advanced user who can 'plan and review their use of predefined or commonly used IT tools for activities most of which are complex and non-routine. As a result of reviewing their work, they will be able to devise solutions in the use of IT tools in order to improve productivity. They will take considerable responsibility and autonomy, and be prepared to offer support and advice to others.'

Learners should consider their role and the typical use of IT and then choose 2 Optional Units if aiming for a Level 2 Certificate or 3 Units for a Level 3.

Working with the assessor

ITQ for Accessible IT Practice looks for real evidence generated as a result of work related tasks or those carried out using IT in your personal life. This is a portfolio-based qualification, which asks you to bring together various pieces of evidence so that a qualified assessor can assess and give feedback as to whether it meets the ITQ criteria and the essential element of ITQ for Accessible IT Practice. Your organisation will need to allocate an assessor to help you get started and who will support you throughout the ITQ journey. Your assessor should help you initially to look at:

Initial assessment: Staff, as learners, need to carry out some form of initial assessment looking at the criteria to ascertain if they have the skills and knowledge associated with the use of IT software. In the Main ITQ Resources Section you will find a copy of each Unit's criteria. For a full copy of the full set of standards at the e-skills UK website. Your assessor will also check if you have the skills and knowledge associated with accessible IT practice to identify skills gaps ready for specific training

Task centred and holistic approach: The learner needs to consider their role and use of IT to see how evidence can be generated naturally and whether any tasks they have recently done, or are due to do, might link or cross reference to various Units. For example, a learner who produces a word-processed handbook or document might also produce this in an audio format and therefore linking one piece of evidence with Word Processing and Text-to-Speech. This holistic approach is more cost effective in time and effort than taking a Unit by Unit approach. The Programme Resources contain Evidence Guides with examples of the holistic approach.

Accreditation of prior achievement: If you have achieved IT qualifications in the recent past it is possible you can bring those achievements into ITQ for Accessible IT Practice. For example, if you have achieved ECDL Level 2 and now wish to achieve ITQ for Accessible IT Practice at Level 3, then ask your assessor to check if the Units are within an acceptable date range. If a Unit is accepted, the assessor needs to check you have current skills and knowledge relating to accessible IT practice.
A recommendation is that the assessor asks for a piece of evidence that would sufficiently meet some of the Improving Productivity using IT criteria and also show the learner's capability of producing accessible documents, presentations, spreadsheets or website creation. An assessor, for example, would look to see if a word processed document has been prepared to include aspects such as:

• Structured, with headings, styles, suitable layouts
• The use of document maps
• Contents table
• Captioned images
• Well constructed tabular data suitable for a screen reader

Supporting your assessor team

If you are an existing City and Guilds ITQ approved centre you already have the assessor team and quality processes in place. However, you may feel that your assessor team and quality control manager could benefit by having specific advice and guidance during the initial delivery. This support could be provided by DawsonLoane, who are an existing City and Guilds ITQ centre with expertise in ITQ for Accessible IT Practice training and assessment.
Contact Di Dawson at DawsonLoane to discuss how they can provide you with specific advice and guidance.
If you are not a City and Guilds ITQ approved status DawsonLoane can provide the registration, assessment and verification for your learners.
To apply for City and Guilds centre approval see the City and Guilds website.

Contact us

By Telephone: +44 (0)1904 717580

By Fax: +44 (0)1904 717505

By Post: JISC TechDis, C/O The Higher Education Academy Building, Innovation Way, York Science Park, YORK, YO10 5BR

Email JISC TechDis

Accessibility statement

We have endeavoured to make this site usable and fully accessible. We would like all users to be able find the information they are looking for quickly and easily.

If you find a problem in using this site, please email helpdesk@techdis.ac.uk.

Navigation Menus

There are two navigation menus that you will find throughout the site:

Main navigation
Section navigation

Main Navigation

This is the horizontal navigation that sits at the top of the page. This can be used to jump to the section of the website you wish to visit. To help you navigate each section, you will find a separate navigation to the left of the page.

Section Navigation

The section navigation can be found at the left of the page. For the majority of the pages this is true, except on the handful of pages that do not require further navigation.

Usability of this Site

This website offers the following usability and accessibility features to help users:

Return to the home page

To return to the homepage of the website, please click on the Home link (top left of the page).

Increasing the text size

The majority of this website has been designed to be legible at larger font sizes.

Use your browser’s text-resize functionality. Modern browsers allow you to change the size of the text should you want to. To do this, hold down the Control Button and press + or - to increase or decrease text size respectively. For browsers where this does not work, please refer to the browser's help documentation.

You can also choose the Large print option under the Themes menu on the main menu bar at the top of the page.

Changing the page colour

There are several ways to change the colours of our web pages to make them more readable:

• Use the browser/operating system options available.
• Use the accessibility tools built in to the website.
• Use the browser/operating system options available.

For more information on the options available, you may like to visit the BBC’s site; My Web My Way.

Use the inbuilt options available. There are 6 alternative colour themes available from the the main menu bar at the top of the page.

Text to speech options

For Text to speech on this or any other website either use FireFox browser and install the free FireVox or CLCspeak plugin or use a free Text to speech tool such as Balabolka, Dspeech or the free version of NaturalReader.