Universal Design for Learning
Overview
Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is a framework for designing learning experiences that recognize learner variability and reduce barriers to student success. Rather than designing for a single “average” learner, UDL encourages instructors to build flexibility into courses from the start so that all students have meaningful opportunities to engage, participate, and demonstrate their learning.
UDL supports inclusive and accessible teaching by helping instructors consider multiple ways students can access course materials, interact with content, and show what they know. This approach benefits all learners, including students with disabilities, multilingual students, first-generation students, working students, caregivers, and students with a wide range of strengths, experiences, and support needs.
UDL in Practice
In practice, UDL asks instructors to consider three key areas of course design:
- Engagement: How can students connect with the course, stay motivated, and participate in meaningful ways?
- Representation: How can course content be shared in clear, accessible, and varied formats?
- Action and Expression: How can students demonstrate their learning through flexible, well-supported pathways?
Getting Started with UDL
Instructors do not need to redesign an entire course to begin using UDL. Small, intentional changes can make a meaningful difference. Examples include providing clear assignment instructions, using accessible documents and slides, captioning videos, offering opportunities for low-stakes practice, and sharing examples or rubrics that clarify expectations.
Designing for Access Workshop Series
The Center for Educational Effectiveness offers the Designing for Access Workshop Series to help instructors explore Universal Design for Learning, accessible course materials, and inclusive teaching strategies. The series provides practical, easy-to-implement ideas that instructors can apply immediately in their courses.
This workshop series is open to all instructors on campus, including graduate students and postdoctoral scholars. No prior knowledge of UDL or accessibility is required.
Register for the Designing for Access Workshop Series
Schedule a Consultation
Interested in applying Universal Design for Learning principles to your course? CEE offers consultations to help instructors design more inclusive, accessible, and effective learning experiences. Whether you're redesigning a course, updating materials, or exploring new teaching strategies, we're here to help.
Contact
For questions about Universal Design for Learning, the Designing for Access Workshop Series, or related teaching and accessibility resources, please contact: Felicitas Hartung, Ph.D., Education Specialist, [email protected]