Chapter 2: Inclusive ODeL: Ensuring the Highest Possible Standards in Disability Access and Support

The provision of education has not been ‘business as usual’ since the outbreak of COVID-19. The pandemic has considerably revolutionised education provisioning and accelerated the transition to online learning. Hence, countries, through their higher education institutions, should – more than ever – be prepared to provide accessible, equitable and quality education to all students, including those with special education needs. ODeL is one way to accommodate anyone who cannot acquire education at contact learning institutions. Thus, there is an urgent need to explore the extent to which ODeL maintains high standards and whether it is positioned to benefit students with disabilities. Sections of this chapter are aimed at answering the question: “Is ODeL well aligned to promote equality, accessibility and inclusion for students with disabilities in South Africa and the world over?