UDL Everywhere Always

Presented at 10:00am in Virtual B on Thursday, November 12, 2020.

#32232

Speaker(s)

Christa Miller, Independent Consultant

Session Details

Length of Session: 45 minutes
Format: Lecture
Expertise Level: Beginner
Type of session: Pre-conference

Summary

As Universal Design for Learning (UDL) grows in popularity throughout education, it is worth considering its application to all learning opportunities. For example, UDL allowed Virginia Tech to improve their Certified Accessibility Professionals Grant program. Participants will explore where UDL can support learning opportunities for them.

Abstract

Universal Design for Learning (UDL) has made headway in adoption by Higher Education. However, the majority of implementation initiatives, training opportunities, and case studies relate exclusively to UDL adoption by teaching faculty. While this is critical to the success of accessibility improvements, UDL researchers and practitioners agree that UDL applies to all learning. Be it one-on-one, in small groups, or large groups, UDL has the power to improve our communication and improve the reception of our message. Putting UDL everywhere always has greatly improved the cohort based Certified Accessibility Professionals Grant at Virginia Tech. What started as a didactic training program has improved dramatically through a UDL approach to professional development. In particular, the number of new applicants and new allies has increased since 2018. In this interactive session, participants will explore how to apply UDL to learning opportunities at their institution.

Keypoints

The UDL framework applies to learning opportunities beyond the traditional classroom.
UDL increases participant engagement and impact of professional development.
Use a scaffolded approach to implementing UDL to non-traditional classroom learning.

Disability Areas

All Areas

Topic Areas

Accessible Course Design, Faculty Development & Support, Uncategorized

Speaker Bio(s)

Christa Miller

Christa is a longtime accessibility advocate and has experience in many roles ranging from assistive technology, Braille, professional development, disability accommodations, and web accessibility.