Terms used on this site

Short, plain-language definitions of the standards, theories and tools named across the portfolio.

AODA

The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (LAPHO in French). Ontario’s accessibility law.

WCAG

Web Content Accessibility Guidelines, the international standard for accessible web content.

ADDIE

A five-stage design process: Analyze, Design, Develop, Implement, Evaluate.

Mayer’s principles

Research-based rules for combining words, images and sound so learners are not overloaded.

Cognitive load

The mental effort a task demands. Extraneous load is effort wasted on poor design.

Dual coding

Pairing words with visuals so memory has two routes to the same idea.

Socio-constructivism

The view that people learn by building understanding together.

Kirkpatrick’s model

Four levels for judging training: reaction, learning, behaviour and results.

Scaffolding

Temporary support that helps learners until they can do the task alone.

Andragogy

The theory of how adults learn: practical, relevant and self-directed.

H5P

A tool for interactive content such as flashcards, hotspots and quizzes.

Bimodal teaching

Teaching in-person and remote learners at the same time.

UX

User experience: how easy and pleasant a course is to use.

Techno-pedagogical specialist

A role that helps teachers use technology to teach well.

DALF C1

An advanced French-language diploma.

OCT, QTS

Teaching credentials: Ontario College of Teachers, and Qualified Teacher Status (UK).

WES

World Education Services, which evaluates foreign degrees for Canadian use.