Learning without limits: Ensuring accessibility in digital learning

Host: Matt Linaker

Guests:

• David Dent, Learning & Development Business Partner, Blind Veterans UK
• Maia Miller, Managing Director, Aleph Accessibility
• Steve Barnett, Front-End Developer, Intopia
• Paul Clark, Head of Experience Design, Totara

Episode Overview:

In this insightful episode, we dive into the topic of digital accessibility in learning and development. Our guests—David Dent from Blind Veterans UK, Maia Miller of Aleph Accessibility, and Steve Barnett, a front-end developer specialising in accessibility—explore how to create more inclusive digital learning experiences. From practical steps to improve accessibility to larger philosophical discussions on inclusion, this episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about making digital learning accessible to all.

We also get a behind-the-scenes update from Paul Clark, Head of Experience Design at Totara, who discusses exciting accessibility initiatives Totara is implementing to enhance user experiences.

Key Topics:

• What accessibility in digital learning really means
• Common barriers learners face and how to address them
• The importance of "baking in" accessibility from the start rather than as an afterthought
• Practical advice for making content more inclusive, even under time pressure
• The future of accessibility and dynamic content adaptation, including AI and user feedback
• How accessibility applies to compliance training and assessment methods
• Encouraging continuous feedback on accessibility from learners

Key Quotes:

• "Is it really engaging content if people can't engage with it?" — Maia Miller
• "If you display it, say it." — David Dent
• "Accessibility is a people problem, not a technology problem." — Steve Barnett
• "Progress, not perfection. Focus on small improvements and keep moving forward." — Maia Miller

Resources Mentioned:

• Aleph Accessibility
• Microsoft Inclusive Design
• Accessibility Insights by Microsoft
• WebAIM
• TPGI Resources
• Deque

About Totara:

Totara develops talent development software to create lasting employee success. Learn more at Totara.com or join our community of learning professionals at totara.community to share ideas and collaborate.