UDL: An Overview

Universal Design for Learning is not a specific way to teach, or set of teaching methods. Instead, UDL provides an overarching framework that allows us to facilitate accessible and challenging learning experiences for all. Learn more about why UDL is so important for open access institutions, and begin exploring the framework in the video below.


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Next, take a moment to explore the UDL interactive graphic organizer on the CAST website. Note that each of the separate 9 guidelines in the 3 x 3 grid contains links to more specific strategies. As you explore, think about which of these guidelines you are already achieving in your course(s), as well as which ones might be most helpful for you in your next round of course improvements.


UDL Guidelines: CAST (Scroll down to view organizer)


Applying the UDL Framework

Now that you have first explored the UDL guidelines, take some time to dive further into the potential applications of UDL to your interactions with learners. In the section below, you are provided three options to learn more about UDL:

  • Watching a video of Matt Martin, Coordinator of Learning Experience Design discussing specific examples of the HOW, WHAT, and WHY of learning with UDL, OR
  • Reading more by exploring the UDL on Campus website, OR
  • Listening to a podcast discussion of UDL.

In this case, we recommend choosing ONE of these three options for this training, and then utilizing the others only if interested, or if time allows. (You are not required to use each of these resources--choose the one that will meet your needs best.)


Option 1:

The UDL Guidelines provide a wealth of ideas for ways to increase options for our learners, but they can be a bit abstract at first. In the following video, we discuss examples from three different courses, demonstrating specific ways to provide an additional HOW, WHAT, or WHY for your students.


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Option 2: Explore the UDL on Campus Website

You've already seen the introductory video from this website, but if you choose this option, be sure to explore more deeply the three main areas of the site: Course Design, Accessibility and Policy, and Media and Materials. (The first area, Course Design, is probably the most directly useful for this module, although the other two provide helpful information as well.)

UDL on Campus: Universal Design for Learning in Higher Education



Option 3: Listen to a UDL Podcast on Teaching In Higher Ed

In the following podcast, Mark Hofer discusses how he uses UDL in his courses. Mark is a professor of education and Co-Director of the Center for Innovation in Learning Design at the College of William & Mary in Williamsburg, Virginia. His academic specialization is in the use of educational technologies to support teaching and learning in K-12 schools and higher education.

Hosted by Bonni Stachowiak, The Teaching in Higher Ed Podcast airs weekly. The podcast focuses on topics such as excellence in teaching, instructional design, open education, diversity and inclusion, productivity, creativity in teaching, educational technology, and blended learning.

Teaching In Higher Ed Podcast: Faculty Development for Professors