Language Access by Design

Design digital learning so multilingual learners can access meaning, use their full linguistic resources and show what they know without unnecessary language barriers.

• Separate language demand from learning demand — A learner can understand a complex idea while still needing support with the language used to access or express it.
• Make important language visible in context — Key vocabulary and language structures become more usable when learners can connect them to meaning, examples and prior knowledge.
• Use translation as access, not as proof of understanding — Translation tools can open a door to meaning, but automated output still needs context, judgement and opportunities to use learners' full linguistic resources.
• Do not make text carry every part of the meaning — Visuals, audio, captions, examples and demonstrations can reduce language barriers when each mode contributes to understanding.
• Check what the assessment is actually measuring — Assessment can accidentally measure proficiency in the language of the task more than the intended knowledge or skill.