Topic 6: UDL and Accessibility
Topic 6: UDL and Accessibility
Accessibility is a cornerstone of the Universal Design for Learning (UDL) framework, essential for creating inclusive educational environments that reflect the growing emphasis on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in education. It ensures that all learners can perceive, navigate, and understand educational materials, thereby removing barriers for individuals with varying learning natures, including those who are neurodiverse. Recognizing neurodiversity is crucial, as it acknowledges the unique learning profiles of students with conditions such as autism, ADHD, and dyslexia, who may require tailored supports. While accessibility focuses on adhering to guidelines like the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), UDL promotes flexible teaching strategies that empower every student to thrive. Together, these principles not only enrich the learning experience but also reinforce a commitment to equity, enabling all students to succeed.
Topic Learner Outcomes:
- Explain why accessibility is a fundamental part of the learning process.
- Apply UDL principles to enhance course design, instructional materials, and assessments, ensuring accessibility and inclusivity for all learners.
- Determine and evaluate barriers that can be reduced by following accessibility regulations.
Topic Learner Outcomes:
- Explain why accessibility is a fundamental part of the learning process.
- Apply UDL principles to enhance course design, instructional materials, and assessments, ensuring accessibility and inclusivity for all learners.
- Determine and evaluate barriers that can be reduced by following accessibility regulations.
- Read in Ch. 1
- Introduction
- Reducing Barriers
- Changes in the Environment of UDL The Societal Changes and the Context of UDL
- Read in Ch. 4
- Provide Multiple Means of Representation until Fig. 4.15
- Read in Ch. 5
- The Recognition Principle: Recogntion and Design of an Online Learning Tool unitl Recognition, Learning Design, and the UDL Guidlelines
- Read below Fig. 5.11 until Conclusion Who Are the UDL Guidelines For?
- Read in Ch. 6
- Materials until Planning with Lindsay
Universal Design for Learning: Principles, Framework, and Practice
- Ch. 4: Accessibility is a Cornerstone of UDL
When we design for disability, we all benefit (Note this video focuses on Universal Design which is a core understanding for UDL)
Universal Design for Learning and Neurodiversity
Addressing Neurodiversity through Universal Design
Understanding the Overlap Between UDL and Digital Accessibility
Topic Specific Activities:
