We would like to thank those designers of WebCT courses at UNSW who allowed access to their courses for the purpose of evaluation, and for their assistance with interviews and a survey. Thanks are also due to the students who generously gave their time to assist in the evaluation. The Equity and Diversity Unit at UNSW have been invaluable in their assistance and support, particularly Jude Stoddart, Director, and Laurie Alsop, Disability Liaison Officer, the same is true of the Student Support Service at the University of Teesside (UoT), particularly the Student Support Officer, Claire Dowling and Catherine Dummigan, Disability Officer.

About the Researcher

Dr Elaine Pearson is a leading member of the Special Needs Computing Research Unit (SNCRU) at UoT. This research unit is involved in extensive research and development in the application of computer technology for people with physical and learning disabilities. Research activities in the SNCRU include developments in educational technology in the community for people with particular needs; assessment, remediation and development of language in children with special educational needs, and investigation of Autistic Spectrum disorders. Elaine has a PhD in multimedia programs for development and assessment of language in children with special needs. She teaches a number of Post Graduate courses in Courseware Design, and Multimedia Design, and has been involved in the development of a number of Masters courses in Multimedia and Information Technology.