Creating Accessible Online Content with UDL

             UDL at a Glance (Center for Applied Technology, n.d.)

UDL is the acronym for Universal Design for Learning. It is an educational framework developed by CAST to guide the design of learning experiences to respond to the needs of all learners proactively.

All teachers have one thing in common - - they all need to meet curriculum goals. Classrooms are highly diverse; as such, curriculum needs to be designed to meet this diversity.  The goal of UDL (Universal Design for Learning) is to remove barriers to learning to ensure optimal learning experiences. The flowchart below serves as a guide to understanding the relationship between UDL and online courses or program design.

Figure 1

Flowchart to Guide UDL in Online Courses or Program Design

UDL Principles and Strategies

Conclusion

Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is an approach to curriculum that minimizes barriers and maximizes learning for all students (Center for Applied Technology, n.d.).  Instructional designers and instructors must always keep the learning goals in mind and remove any barriers to learning. The implementation of UDL in the design of online content promises a learning experience that is inclusive, engaging, and flexible. It recognizes and values the diverse ways learners interact with content, derive meaning, and demonstrate their understanding.

References

Center for Applied Technology.  (n.d.).  UDL at a glance [Video].  Youtube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bDvKnY0g6e4&t=121s  

Georgetown University.  (n.d.).  Universal design for learning.  https://cndls.georgetown.edu/universal-design-for-learning/