Would you like to increase the pathways through which your students interact with your course material? These quick tips from Inside Higher Ed for incorporating Universal Design for Learning into your course design are tried and tested. By implementing some UDL strategies, you will not only save time (by reducing the number of after-the-fact accommodations needed), you will also increase student engagement in your course which can improve learning outcomes. Trying just one new strategy in your course design can make a demonstrable difference in your students’ learning experiences.
When more students understand and master your course material, they’re more confident in sharing their knowledge and supporting other students in the learning process. While this NYT article is a little longer (15-20 minutes to read), it outlines the exciting example of Xavier University where community-supported learning is incorporated into course and program design. Against the odds, the impressive results demonstrate significantly improved measurable learning outcomes in Xavier’s graduates’ admit rates to (and graduation rates from) medical school.
Feedback, questions or ideas to share? Please contact Melanie Gangle in accessible education services at gangle@up.edu.