Creating a sustainable and effective system for the provision of access arrangements

Abstract

The provision of readers for students with particular needs entitled for such support during examinations is becoming increasingly challenging especially in educational institutions adopting a continuous assessment approach. This service entails a considerable human resource base along with sound organisation and management. Introducing reading technology into the scene would help address the current situation and harness the multiple benefits of a technology based approach to the access arrangement of reading. This research study aims to develop a system which integrates reading technology, human readers, IT systems, and management in order to obtain an effective process coupled with sustainable practices in the field. It seeks to establish an operational system according to the actual needs of the stakeholders involved. The study was initiated by a thorough evaluation of the available literature regarding the use of reading technology in educational settings, particularly during examinations. Additional insights were then gained from an exploration of the personal perspectives of students, lecturers and management involved. This was carried out through mock tests and interviews in a local post-secondary vocational education entity. This research collated perspectives on a proposed system as well as on reading pens, text-to-speech software and human readers, which are the three modes of reading support featured in the design. It also factored in the personal and social aspects of end-users. An appreciation of challenges and recommendations enabled further modifications to the original proposal. The study evolved into a final design of a system for the provision of readers during examinations which shifts the focus from the managing aspect to the endusers, exploits the efficiency of a dedicated online platform, fosters student independence, appreciates social factors at play, and creates a mutually beneficial environment for all stakeholders.