Universal Design for Learning

What is Universal Design for Learning (UDL)?

"Universal Design is the process of creating products (devices, environments, systems, and processes) that are usable by people with the widest possible range of abilities, operating within the widest possible range of situations (environments, conditions, and circumstances). Universal Design emerged from the slightly earlier concept of being barrier-free, the broader accessibility movement, and adaptive and assistive technology. It also seeks to blend aesthetics into these core considerations." [UBC OER Accessibility Toolkit, CC licensed]

Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and the UDL principles come from the Center for Applied Special Technology (CAST) Links to an external site.. At a basic level, these principles are described in the OER Accessibility Toolkit as:

  • presenting information and content in various ways
  • providing more than one way for learners to show what they know
  • stimulating interest and motivation for learning

This detailed graphic provides basic guidelines for the design of student learning. The interactive version Links to an external site. of this graphic can be found on the CAST website. 

UDL Principles (CAST)

Source: Universal Design for Learning Guidelines developed by CAST. Attributed to CAST (2018). Universal design for learning guidelines version 2.2 [graphic organizer]. Wakefield, MA: Author.

10 Steps to Creating Courses Supported by UDL

The ten steps outlined here are a guide to creating accessible online course content and materials for all students.

  1. Include a welcoming access statement Links to an external site.
  2. Provide simple, consistent navigation Links to an external site.
  3. Choose tools carefully Links to an external site.
  4. Model and teach good discussion board etiquette Links to an external site.
  5. Use color with care Links to an external site.
  6. Make sure text is readable Links to an external site.
  7. Provide accessible document formats Links to an external site.
  8. Describe graphics and visual elements Links to an external site.
  9. Caption videos and transcribe audio clips Links to an external site.
  10. Rethink and redesign PowerPoint presentations Links to an external site.

Additional Resources