Case study 4: Disabilities

Using online voice technologies to link learners in Australia with a class in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

Institute:	Central Gippsland Institute of TAFE (GippsTAFE)
Researchers :	Vanessa Marsh and Brad Beach
Teacher:	Tania Ryan
Course:	Certificate IV in Communities Services (Disabilities studies, Australia) Bachelor of Education (Abu Dhabi)

Learner profile:

Australia:

• traditional face-to-face learners
• female learners ranging from school leavers to mature learners
• many returning to study for the first time after raising a family.

Abu Dhabi:

• traditional face-to-face learners
• many studying for the first time
• female learners.

Delivery mode:

Blended face-to-face and online learning. Online voice tools used to allow learners to interact on issues including:

• sharing cultural experiences
• understanding the educational needs of students with a disability.