Universal Design for Learning (UDL)
Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is a “framework to improve and optimize teaching and learning for all people based on scientific insights into how humans learn” (CAST, 2022). It aims to minimise barriers and maximise opportunities for learning by anticipating and catering for learner diversity. The guidelines offer practical strategies to support inclusive learning and teaching experiences.
The framework guides the intentional design of learning and teaching environments and experiences that are accessible, inclusive, equitable, and challenging for every learner (CAST 2024).
"The approach encourages flexible conditions that ensure access and participation by all students, without lowering expectations and standards"
- Educause, 2015
UDL Guidelines
The goal of the UDL framework is to support "learner agency that is purposeful & reflective, resourceful & authentic, strategic & action-oriented" (CAST, 2024). The guidelines outline considerations and strategies that can be applied when designing learning environments and experiences.
The UDL Guidelines are organised into three principles:
- Engagement
- Representation
- Action and Expression
Considerations to design options for access, support and the development of executive functions are provided for each principle.
Provide varied and flexible ways for students to participate in learning. Offering choice for engagement caters to students’ diverse interests, identities and preferences.
An example of this principle in practice is to facilitate synchronous sharing and discussion, allowing students to participate verbally or in writing through a real time chat (Consideration 7.1 Optimise choice and autonomy).
Ensure information is presented in various formats that cater to potential learning preferences. Equitable access to learning is enhanced by offering flexibility for engagement with content.
Providing images, audio or video that convey the same meaning as text content is an example of designing multiple means of representation (Consideration 1.2: Support multiple ways to perceive information).
Empower learners to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in various ways and design learning experiences that support planning, goal setting and monitoring progress. This enables students to express their understanding to the best of their ability.
For example, allow students the choice to submit an assessment as a written report or a recorded presentation (Consideration 5.1: Use multiple media for communication).
Universal Design for Learning in Tertiary Education (e-learning program)
The Universal Design for Learning (UDL) in Tertiary Education program, developed by Disability Awareness, is now available to UOW staff via Unified.
Universal Design for Learning in Tertiary Education is an online self-paced program created by Disability Awareness. The program is designed for educational staff working in Higher Education and the Vocational Education and Training sector. It aims to increase your understanding of designing, developing and implementing UDL within your teaching practice in tertiary education.
Related information
- The UDL Guidelines | External resource
References
CAST. (2022). About Universal Design for Learning. Retrieved May 31, 2022, from http://www.cast.org/impact/universal-design-for-learning-udl
CAST (2024). The Goal of UDL: Learner Agency. Retrieved August 12, 2024, from https://udlguidelines.cast.org/more/udl-goal/
Educause (2015). 7 Things you Should Know About Universal Design for Learning. Retrieved May 31, 2022, from https://library.educause.edu/resources/2015/4/7-things-you-should-know-about-universal-design-for-learning
