Universal Design for Learning

Universal Design for Learning (UDL) transforms higher education by creating flexible, inclusive learning environments. This framework provides multiple ways for students to access content, engage with material, and demonstrate learning. By recognizing and supporting diverse learning styles and abilities, UDL helps faculty design courses that remove barriers, personalize learning experiences, and ensure all students have equitable opportunities to succeed academically.When we teach students, barriers sometimes become apparent that impede the learning process. Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is an approach to teaching that aims to help all learners by removing those barriers that might become present in the classroom. UDL is based on three sets of guidelines:

Engagement: The WHY of Learning
Representation: The WHAT of Learning
Action & Expression: The HOW of Learning

 

 

Key Benefits of UDL

• Creates more inclusive classrooms by providing multiple ways for students to access, engage with, and demonstrate learning, ensuring that diverse learning styles and abilities are supported.
• Enhances student motivation and engagement by offering flexible learning pathways that allow students to connect with course material in personally meaningful ways.
• Proactively reduces educational barriers by designing courses that inherently accommodate different learning needs, reducing the need for individual accommodations and creating a more equitable learning environment.

 

Learn More About UDL

UDL may be something you are familiar with or it may be something completely new to you. If you would like to talk with someone who could help you incorporate the guidelines of UDL in your classroom, schedule a consultation with one of CETAL’s instructional designers today!

Books

• Reach Everyone, Teach Everyone: Universal Design for Learning in Higher Education 
• UDL Navigators in Higher Education: A Field Guide
• Transforming Higher Education through Universal Design for Learning 

Resources

• CAST: Universal Design for Learning
• CAST: UDL On Campus in Higher Education
• TEAL Center Fact Sheet: Universal Design for Learning (PDF)
• Universal Design in Higher Education: Promising Practices (PDF)
• Cornell University: Universal Design for Learning
• Harvard Graduate School of Learning: The Importance of Universal Design for Learning