E-learning for inclusion
An evaluation of institution-wide communication access training in UK higher education
Bibliographic Data
| ID | 22422158 |
|---|---|
| Authors | Lauren Flannery (0009-0009-1235-8177, University of East Anglia, corresponding author), Karen Bunning (0000-0002-7396-9205, University of East Anglia) |
| Year | 2026 |
| Pages | 1-18 |
| Publication date | 2026-04-24 |
| Peer Reviewed | Yes |
| Open Access | Yes |
| Type | ARTICLE |
| Venue | International Journal of Inclusive Education (JOURNAL) |
| Journal identifiers | ISSN: 1360-3116 • E-ISSN: 1464-5173 |
| Publisher | Informa UK Limited (PUBLISHER • GB) |
| DOI | 10.1080/13603116.2026.2663094 |
| OpenAlex | W7155487964 |
| Language | EN |
| References cited | 56 |
Communication access is foundational to equitable participation in higher education, yet staff and students often lack confidence and practical strategies for inclusive interactions. To evaluate the impact of an institution-wide online Communication Access UK (CAUK) training programme on participants' awareness, confidence and ability to adapt communication. A quasi-experimental, mixed-methods pre/post design was implemented at a UK campus-based university. All staff and students were invited to complete four short e-learning modules. Self-report surveys were administered via MS Forms immediately before and after training. A total of 337 participants completed pre-training measures, and 217 completed post-training measures. Significant increases in participants' awareness, understanding and ability to adapt communication were recorded. Motivations for completing the training included building knowledge, promoting inclusion and enhancing one's role/personal relevance and confidence. Findings indicate that a brief, scalable e-learning intervention can strengthen self-efficacy and reported skills in inclusive communication across an entire institution. Embedding such training within staff development and student induction, alongside visible accreditation, offers a pragmatic route to anticipatory inclusion.
Access to Higher Education · Higher education · Postsecondary education · Qualitative research · Education Systems and Policy · Educational Theory and Curriculum Studies · Online and Blended Learning
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| Citation velocity | historical |
|---|---|
| Highly cited | No |