Learning Starts with Design: Using Universal Design for Learning (UDL) in Higher Education Course Redesign

Abstract

Larger numbers of students are entering higher education with more diverse learning needs. While laws are in place to create equal access to education for all, government-mandated learning supports for students with documented disabilities vary significantly from K-12 education to higher education. Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is a course design framework based on Universal Design in architecture, neuroscience research, and the latest technology, to design learning environments and curriculums that are accessible to all students in every learning environment. This chapter reviews literature on the history of Universal Design concepts, starting with Universal Design in architecture and moving into UDL. A review of the learning preferences of Millennial students, along with the neuroscience of learning and its connection to the principles of UDL, is also included in the literature review. This chapter also includes a section on Dr. Buckland Parker's study which documents four faculty members who chose to work with a small team of faculty development specialists to redesign their large enrollment courses using the principles of Universal Design for Learning.

Citation

Buckland Parker, H. (2012), "Learning Starts with Design: Using Universal Design for Learning (UDL) in Higher Education Course Redesign", Miller, F.S. (Ed.) Transforming Learning Environments: Strategies to Shape the Next Generation (Advances in Educational Administration, Vol. 16), Emerald Group Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 109-136. https://doi.org/10.1108/S1479-3660(2012)0000016009