What is UDL?
“Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is an educational movement focused on changing our instructional practices to reach the maximum number of students regardless of ability, disability, age, gender, or cultural and linguistic background. Applying UDL to library instruction means designing instruction that accounts for everyone’s abilities and differences.” (ACRL, 2023, Introduction section)
The UDL framework is grounded in three principles:
- Multiple means of representation – using a variety of methods to present information, provide a range of means to support.
- Multiple means of action and expression – providing learners with alternative ways to act skillfully and demonstrate what they know.
- Multiple means of engagement – tapping into learners’ interests by offering choices of content and tools; motivating learners by offering adjustable levels of challenge.
UDL is a framework that is designed to allow us to adopt teaching styles that accommodate different learning strategies and abilities. The framework doesn’t use a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach, rather it includes the three principles outlined above to provide multiple ways of presenting information, providing learning different ways to learn and engage. UDL originated from universal design engineering, which focused on accessibility features like doorways and ramps. Today, UDL encompasses all forms of design, including virtual and online spaces, with accessibility considerations such as closed captioning and alt text for images.
UDL At A Glance
What is UDL and how can you implement it into their teaching?