Inclusive learning and teaching
The UOW community boasts a rich diversity of students and staff. Inclusive learning and teaching ensures equal and equitable learning experiences for all. This approach celebrates learner diversity, ensures accessibility and acknowledges student needs and preferences.
More information about inclusion in learning and teaching can be found in the Accessibility, Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and Inclusive Design article.
Learn about the importance of inclusive learning and teaching at UOW and the wider higher education sector in the video below.
Speaker 1: Learning, teaching, and curriculum have been working collaboratively across the institution to develop a new series of professional learning resources and sessions for staff. The focus is on enhancing the inclusivity and accessibility of our teaching and learning practices.
Speaker 2: This effort is motivated by our university and the higher education sector’s move towards facilitating more equitable and inclusive educational experiences for our staff and students.
Speaker 3: The 2024 EDUCAUSE Horizon report emphasises the importance of supporting equitable and inclusive learning
Speaker 4: As we see the changes in student demographics and a persisting digital divide, creating rich learning environments built on relationships becomes crucial.
Speaker 1: A similar sentiment is expressed in the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly number four, which is about ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all.
Speaker 3: Now, as we zoom into the Australian context more specifically, the 2024 Accord final report articulates a vision for an inclusive higher education system that supports learning for any person who needs or desires it.
Speaker 2: The Accord also highlights the need for institutions to ensure learning environments are safe, welcoming, and inclusive spaces.
Speaker 4: These changes are reflected at UOW, in the newly designed equity, diversity, and inclusion action plan.
Speaker 3: It encourages staff to embed inclusive and accessible practices and pedagogies, like Universal Design for Learning, into all UOW processes. This includes learning and teaching assessment, curriculum design, and the design of digital assets.
Speaker 1: UOW is also finalising a Student Success Strategy. In 2022, more than 50% of UOW students self-identified to belonging to priority learner categories listed in the strategy.
Speaker 2: In 2023 and 2024, the Division of Student Life collaborated with students and staff across all UOW Australian campuses to identify a vision and key actions.
Speaker 4: The shared vision aims to foster a community where diversity, inclusivity, and equity thrive.
Speaker 3: Empowering every student to achieve their goals and celebrate their unique achievements.
Speaker 1: With this in mind, LTC invite you to join us in sharing your experience and expertise as we continue to collaborate, exploring new ways that we can strengthen practice, and provide our students with truly inclusive learning experiences.
