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Universal Design for Learning

Definition

Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is a framework that provides a set of practices based on cognitive neuroscience and inclusive pedagogy  which optimizes teaching and learning in any learning environment. Similar to universal design which applies to the architectural design of physical spaces, UDL is intended to remove barriers for all learners. UDL is part of larger efforts to create more Inclusive Instructional Design and Inclusive Teaching practices including Indigenization + decolonization and other practices anchored in equity, diveristy, inclusion and accessibility. 

Explanation

The three guiding principles of UDL include: 

  • Multiple means of representation
  • Multiple means of action and expression
  • Multiple means of engagement

Implementing these principles involves the following: 

  • Using a variety of ways to motivate learners 
  • Communicating course content in various formats
  • Using various types of assessment so learners can demonstrate what they know

Application

Applying the principles of UDL does not have to be complicated and can help you to meet the needs and learning preferences of many learners. There are also specific requirements for accessibility under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) for Public Sector organizations. For more details visit the Ontario Tech Accessibility Hub.  

Digital Content

  • Use image descriptions 
  • Avoid jargon, use Plain Language 
  • Chunk content into smaller sections
  • Use Open Access Materials or ensure you follow copyright 

Review the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) for more detailed information

Accessible Documents

  • Use a Sans Serif Font 
  • Always use Camel Case (Title Case) 
  • Be careful with Bold, Italics and Underline
  • Use descriptive links 
  • Do not add unnecessary spacing for aesthetic 
  • Include high colour contrast 
  • Ensure document can be printed in Greyscale 
  • Include Alternative Text (Alt-Text)
  • Careful with tables 
  • Use the built in Accessibility Checker 

Review the Ontario Tech Accessible Documents Guide and the Branding Guidelines for more information. 

Multimedia (Video + Audio) 

  • Create shorter videos (5 - 10 minutes, maximum 30) 
  • Be aware of lighting
  • Add closed captions
  • Make a Transcript available 
  • Ensure audio is clear
  • Rehearse before recording or create a script (this will help for the captions and transcript as well) 

Use the WebAIM guidelines for different multimedia formats, including Infographics.

Resources

For more on this, visit the Ontario Tech Accessibility Hub.

If you would like to discuss some of the ways you might apply these principles in your courses, we invite you to arrange a meeting with one of our educational developers at the Teaching and Learning Centre (teachingandlearning@ontariotechu.ca) 

References

CAST (2018). Universal Design for Learning Guidelines version 2.2. http://udlguidelines.cast.org  

Rao, Kavita. Inclusive Instructional Design: Applying UDL to Online Learning The Journal of Applied Instructional Design  

Web Accessibility in Mind (WebAIM). https://webaim.org/