Universal Design for Learning

"Universal design is an approach to designing course instruction, materials, and content to benefit people of all learning styles without adaptation or retrofitting.

Universal design provides equal access to learning, not simply equal access to information.

Universal Design allows the student to control the method of accessing information while the teacher monitors the learning process and initiates any beneficial methods."

-- Ohio State University, US Department of Education Grant

The course and assignments should offer various methods of representation, engagement, and expression.

UDL and heutagogy techniques overlap!

UDL Recommendations

The Ohio State University's Fast Facts on UDL includes these recommendations:

• Use peer mentoring, group discussions, and cooperative learning situations rather than strictly lecture
• Update course materials based on current events and student demands
• Provide comprehensive syllabus with clearly identified course requirements, accommodation statement, and due dates
• Fluctuate instructional methods, provide illustrations, handouts, auditory and visual aids
  • Clarify any feedback or instructions, ask for questions, and use multiple examples
  • Relate a new topic to one already learned or a real-life example
  • Allow the student to demonstrate knowledge of the subject through alternate means
  • Permit and encourage the use of adaptive technology

Resources

• Universal Design from CAST -- the Center for Applied Special Technology
• Disabilities, Opportunities, Internetworking, and Technology