Challenges in implementing universal design of ICT among teachers in higher education in Norway

Abstract

Equal access to education for all is a prioritized goal in many parts of the world and included in several national and international regulations. Universal Design (UD) of information and communication technology (ICT) can ensure accessibility of digital learning materials (DLMs). However, until recently the implementation of UD of ICT in higher education institutions (HEIs) has been lacking. This study investigates the practical implementation of UD of ICT of DLMs among teachers in HEIs, challenges experienced by them, and what support is offered by their HEI or what support they believe would be helpful when implementing UD in DLMs. Data was collected through interviews and an online survey from a total of twelve faculty members recruited from eight universities in Norway and analyzed using thematic analysis. Findings indicate that teachers in HEIs do not practice UD of ICT on their DLMs, and that they lack training, sufficient time, and practical support from their HEIs to make their DLMs universally designed. The paper concludes that although HEIs appear willing to provide the necessary support and actions to implement UD of ICT, there seems to be a lack of internal policy on UD.