Universal Design

Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is an approach to teaching that consists of the proactive design and use of inclusive instructional strategies that benefit a broad range of learners including students with disabilities. UDL operates on the premise that the planning and delivery of instruction, as well as the evaluation of learning, can incorporate inclusive attributes that embrace diversity in learners without compromising academic standards. Today's college student population is increasingly diverse in educational background, age, gender, culture, ability, disability, and primary language. Universal Design for Learning has inclusive instructional design elements that are helpful in reaching a broad range of learners.

To apply universal design, instructors should consider the potential variation in individual skills and learning styles as they select instructional strategies and methods of evaluation. UDL provides "a framework for designing curricula that enable all individuals to gain knowledge, skills and enthusiasm for learning. For more information see the University of Washington's Do It Project website.

 

The best way to help students with learning and health challenges is to practice universal design.  Here are a few tips:

Multi-sensory Teaching –

Some students learn more readily if material is presented in as many modalities as possible (seeing, speaking, doing.) Provide opportunities for touching and handling materials that relate to ideas. Cutting and pasting parts of compositions to achieve logical plotting of thoughts is one possibility.

Visualization –

Help students visualize the material. Visual aids can include overhead projectors, films, carousel slide projectors, chalkboards, flip charts, computer graphics, and illustrations of written text.

Auditory - 

Some students learn and remember better when they hear new information.  Giving students an opportunity to ask questions, having class discussions, and group activities are a great way to engage all students.

Analogies - 

Some students learn new information by connecting to information they already know.  Providing something to compare new information to will help students comprehend lessons and concepts on a deeper level.

Access to Information - 

Many students cannot write notes very quickly, so if you are writing on the white board or projecting information on a screen, allow students to take pictures of white board or screen.