What is UDL?

"Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is a research-based set of principles to guide the design of learning environments that are accessible and effective for all." (From CAST.org)

"Universal"
Universal is what makes UDL effective for the widest possible rage of learners It indicates that you can plan an activity that focuses on a learning objective, but that is so flexible and inclusive that any student can find a way to achieve the objective using their strengths.

"Design"
Design refers to the deliberate and intentional method of planning activities and assessments based on the learning objectives and using the UDL Guidelines

"For Equity"
I have added "for Equity" to the title of this module to make it more explicit. The founders of UDL have recognized that the current UDL Guidelines don't go far enough to promote equity for marginalized groups other than students with physical and learning disabilities. We will focus on using the existing guidelines that do promote equity around factors of identity like race, culture, religion, LGBTQIA+ and marginalized and minoritized students.

Expert Learners
One major principle of UDL is that we help student become Expert Learners. For those of us in Higher Ed, this may me spending some time teaching our student HOW Humans Learn and not just the content in our areas of expertise!