EDCI 335: Blog Post 3

Universal Design Learning or UDL, is a concept where designers focus on the limitations of their blueprints rather than how to assist learners if they are met with educational learning barriers. This is done by the framework of using three Universal Design principles as pillars, Multiple means of representation, multiple means of action or expression, and multiple means of engagement. These guidelines assist the already inclusive instructional design as a student-centred approach. Addressing barriers and making improvements such as speech-to-text features or online textbooks, while being essential for some learners also benefits the rest of the student body. 

Adjusting learning environments during unexpected events, like a pandemic, requires adaptability, thoughtful planning, and utilizing technology. It is important to provide emotional and mental support through check-ins and mental health resources, as well as academic flexibility. When an event such as a global pandemic ensures the student will be required to do their learning from home, utilizing technology offers the only solution. Using tools such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams of Google Classroom, guarantees students and teachers access to the course online from home. These virtual lessons and assignments must also provide accessibility by using materials in various formats (PDFs, videos, and audio) for students with disabilities. Offering clear and accessible instructions for using these new platforms and tools that minimize confusion is a perfect example of providing proper scaffolds for a class. It is also important to recognize that some students may not have access to reliable internet, so offering offline materials such as printed packets or USB drives can offer kinesthetic learning material. To guarantee adaptability flexible scheduling is vital. It is important to recognize that students and families are being thrown from their routines in unexpected ways and not only may that cause mental strain, but students’ home environments may not be conducive to strict schedules. Providing recorded lessons and asynchronous tasks can modify assignments to fit the class’s needs. To plan for these modifications proper and ongoing training is required from not only students but facially and parents/guardians. By creating tutorials on how to use online platforms, providing guidance on effective study practices for remote learning, and offering tech or materials sessions to help parents support their children’s education, instructors can develop strong pillars for equitable learning.