0506 I Have a Blind Student in My Maths/Science Class, Should I panic? How to promote inclusion for blind students.
Dónal FitzPatrick

For many students the realisation that mathematics and science are part of the curriculum engenders panic, worry and (let's be honest) downright fear. these emotional responses are exacerbated in the case of blind learners who, because of a lack of access to tools and technologies to help them, are somewhat marginalised when it comes to taking courses in these areas. The presence of a blind student in a class, whether said class is provided in person or virtually, often elicits the same reactions in the person giving the class. Phrases like “how will I present my material”, “how will I get my message across” or “how will I read their homework” are questions which I often have to deal with. In this talk, I aim to show how a blind learner can approach the study of Science, Technology, engineering and Mathematics, and more importantly, to attempt to outline some strategies for teaching this information in a manner which is accessible and inclusive.

0507 Well, the kookaburras, thought it was funny anyway! Gilly Salmon explores innovation in UK and Australian Higher Education.
Gilly Salmon

Kookaburras are best known for their unmistakable call, which sounds uncannily like loud, echoing human laughter ; good-natured, but rather hysterical. Have you heard it around your university?

Kookaburras adapt to a wide variety of wild and human habitats. They are feted by Australian people, (the first owners of the land as well as settlers) for their ability to kill snakes (as well as, more recently, pre-dead barbecue meat!).

Gilly Salmon shares pictures, stories and kookaburras from dipping and diving in search of innovation in UK and Australian Higher Education. She identifies some ‘snakes’ that she was considering offering up. She marks out some similarities, differences and lessons for the future…