Now that we understand the need for 508(c) compliant e-learning, you might be wondering, “How do I transform my existing learning or create new training that’s compliant without boring my learners?”. I’m glad you asked because it’s something that I’ve been giving a great deal of thought to.
At face value, full adherence to the guidelines nudges the author of a piece toward linear, text-centric presentations where the interactivity is focused primarily on navigation. This may be an adequate model for informational web pages, but it is, unfortunately, also an accurate characterization of ineffective e-learning.
If you haven’t been held to 508 guidelines previously, some of the ways that your learning may need to change include:
CCAF design is the approach to designing instructional interactivity introduced by Michael W. Allen which requires instructional interactivity to include meaningful Context, engaging Challenges, specific related Activities, and content-rich corrective Feedback. Where 508 compliant media is streamlined to be universal for a wide range of learners, CCAF aims to:
Short answer: no—but you do need to be aware of the changes needed to create inclusive learning. Section 508 guidelines are directed toward all IT and electronic documents, not specifically for e-learning. Under that lens, the regulations approach the problem chiefly from an information presentation perspective rather than an interactive perspective.
I find that the immediate and near-universal response to advocating for elevated instructional design in e-learning is “That can’t be made 508 compliant.” In most cases, that statement only sounds reasonable if one neither understands Section 508 requirements nor understands CCAF Design, as good instruction is certainly achievable with smart adjustments and considering the learner instead of slavishly adhering to a rule.
With 508 compliance guidelines, there are certainly challenges that present themselves when creating Meaningful, Memorable, and Motivational e-learning that incorporates CCAF design elements. With creativity and consideration of the most important aspects of learning, we can work towards combining these guidelines for training that is not only effective but also engaging and inclusive.