universal design for learning

Definition

An educational framework providing multiple means of representation, engagement, and expression to accommodate diverse learners. It's accessibility as pedagogy, benefiting everyone by removing barriers before they're encountered.

Example Usage

Following universal design for learning principles, she provided lecture transcripts and multiple assignment format options, helping more than just the students with documented disabilities.

Origin

Developed by CAST (Center for Applied Special Technology) in the 1990s, building on architectural universal design concepts

Fun Fact

UDL was designed for special education but turns out that making education accessible for disabled students improves learning for everyone—a concept that still surprises people despite being obvious.

Source: Accessibility and inclusive pedagogy

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