Universal Design for Learning

UDL Faculty Develolpment

EnACT distinguishes itself as a model demonstration project in that it provides new and beginning faculty across the California State University (CSU) system with a comprehensive model of professional development that focuses on the principles of Universal Design for Learning (UDL). UDL mirrors the universal design movement in architecture and product development, which began in the 1970s. Think of speakerphones, curb cuts, and close-captioned television—all universally designed to accommodate a wide variety of users, including those with disabilities.

While faculty at postsecondary institutions have expertise in their respective content areas, many have not received training and support focused on effective instructional strategies. EnACT offers faculty participants with a series of professional development activities that support their understanding and implementation of UDL at the post secondary level. UDL encourages faculty to consider three main principles including how they Represent their course content, how they Engage students in the learning process and how they offer students varied way to Express what they have learned. UDL allows faculty to consider these principles to the benefit of all students including students with disabilities.

To find out more about Universal Design for Learning, explore this UDL video case story.