Universal design for learning (UDL)
Definition: A framework for improving learning and optimising teaching based upon scientific insights of how humans learn. It aims to make learning inclusive and transformative for all people in which the focus is on catering to the differing needs of different students. It is often regarded as an evidence-based and scientifically valid framework to guide educational practice, consisting of three key principles: engagement, representation, and action and expression. In addition, UDL is included in the Higher Education Opportunity Act of 2008 (Edyburn, 2010).
Related terms: Equal opportunities, Inclusivity, Pedagogy, Teaching practice
References:
- Hitchcock, C., Meyer, A., Rose, D., & Jackson, R. (2002). Providing new access to the general curriculum: Universal design for learning. Teaching Exceptional Children, 35(2), 8â17. https://www.proquest.com/scholarly-journals/providing-new-access-general-curriculum/docview/201139970/se-2?accountid=8630
- Rose, D. (2000). Universal design for learning. Journal of Special Education Technology, 15(3), 45â49. https://doi.org/10.1177/016264340001500307
- Rose, D. H., & Meyer, A. (2002). Teaching every student in the digital age: Universal design for learning. In The Corsini Encyclopedia of Psychology. Association for Supervision.
Drafted and Reviewed by: Charlotte R. Pennington, Valeria Agostini, Mahmoud Elsherif, Graham Reid, Mirela Zaneva, FlĂĄvio Azevedo