CLASS: Introduction to Universal Design for Learning

This six-week course will introduce participants to the principles and practices of Universal Design for Learning (UDL). The UDL framework provides a proactive approach to designing inclusive learning environments that anticipate and address barriers before learners encounter them. With a renewed emphasis on identifying and removing barriers rooted in biases and systems of exclusion, UDL benefits all learners, including those with and without disabilities. UDL practices promote purposeful, reflective design that fosters equity by creating environments where all learners can thrive without needing separate accommodations. Librarians in any type of library setting can apply UDL principles to develop dynamic, engaging instruction in face-to-face and online environments, synchronously or asynchronously. By the end of this course, participants will be able to identify systemic and instructional barriers to learning, describe how UDL supports equity and inclusion within their institution, and design learning experiences that proactively remove obstacles and foster meaningful engagement for all learners.

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

• Identify barriers to learning in your current instructional practices,
• Describe how UDL can support learners at your institution or in your context,
• Design learning activities using UDL practices.

This course can be taken as one of the courses in our eight-course Certificate in Library Instruction, but can be taken as a stand-alone course as well.