Inclusive Design Principles for Deaf Learners’ E-Learning: A Design-Based Research Approach

Design principles for creating effective e-learning environments are a crucial part of modern education systems. In addition to growing interest in effective e-learning design, there is a significant lack of educational settings specifically tailored for deaf learners. Therefore, this study presents inclusive design principles based on the initial concepts of authentic learning. Design-based research was used to develop an authentic e-learning environment for 11 deaf learners, utilizing qualitative data collection methods. The results outlined a new and refined principal design and described techniques for creating e-learning for deaf learners. Based on the findings, 13 design principles were developed from the initial set by incorporating both theoretical and practical aspects. Additionally, the results emphasized that following the design principles of authentic learning can increase the effectiveness of e-learning; however, integrating sign language and technology tools is also a necessary factor. Therefore, the established inclusive de-sign principles can serve as guidelines for designing systems and resources for deaf ed-ucation and for educators.