What is UDL?
Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is an approach to teaching and learning to maximise the engagement and outcomes of all students (Levey, 2023). It is based on the premise that we should expect and plan for variability in the ways our learners interact with the information and materials we provide. It recognises that all students learn differently and that they come from a range of different backgrounds culturally and educationally.
This video from CAST covers the basics of UDL.
The UDL Guidelines offer a set of practical suggestions that can be applied to any discipline to ensure that all learners can access and participate in meaningful, challenging learning opportunities. The UDL framework was created by CAST, a non-profit organisation that aims to expand learning opportunities for all individuals, especially those with disabilities.
The UDL framework is based on three principles
- providing multiple means of representation,
- providing multiple means of action and expression,
- providing multiple means of engagement.
UDL At a Glance
Adapted from: CAST (2024) UDL at a Glance.
Benefits of UDL:
- It provides lecturers with a framework that focusses on reducing barriers to learning through providing multiple ways to accessing, engaging with and demonstrating learning.
- It provides students with flexibility in the ways they access and engage with course materials and demonstrate mastery of learning objectives.
- It can increase student interest and engagement and motivation leading to improved retention and attainment for all students.
Resources
UDL On Campus: UDL in Higher Ed (cast.org)
UDL On Campus: UDL Examples (cast.org)
What Is UDL, and How Can It Be Used in Higher Education?
Universal Design for Learning (UDL) – University of Illinois Chicago.
Why is UDL Important? What Does the Research Say?
Student perspectives on the use of universal design for learning
References
CAST (2024) UDL At a Glance
Levey, S. (2023) Universal design for learning. Journal of Education, 203(2), 479 – 487