In order to enhance accessibility, tools for open and
distance learning should be availed not only to
learners, but also course designers, and instructors
including those with disabilities. Firstly web pages
should be designed in a manner that enables effective
accessibility. Course material designers need to pay
strict attention to accessible designs. Guidelines on
designing accessible web pages are therefore critical
in this regard. An example can be that of the
guidelines developed by World Wide Consortium
(http://www.washingtonedu/accesit/articles). Some
state governments have developed their own web
guidelines. There is serious need to take into account
the issue of how teachers and students will interact.
According to http://www.sed/btac text based
resources such as Usenet, discussion groups, bulletin
boards, electronic mail and distribution lists are
generally accessible to students with disability. For
those who are blind in particular, they will need to
access a chat room or the use of a screen reader. The
use of a screen reader technology heavily depends on
how issues bordering on how the chat room was
developed.