Inclusive Design

For our learning approach, we will use Universal Learning Design (UDL). Because of the asynchronous teaching format, we want to ensure the wider range of accessibility of diverse learners.

UDL is a framework that ensures the inclusivity of as a diverse learner base. In the article called “Introductions to Universal Design for Learning (UDL)” (2024) they address the three main principles, with the following being…

  1. The means of representation: The application of different media formats (text, audio, or video).
  2. The means of action and expression: The ability to express learned knowledge differently.
  3. The means of engagement: The ability for teaching content to be engaged by learners differently.

Each principle is heavily considered for our topics. Each topic should ensure that multiple media formats are used. Text is our main learning format, but learning resources such as video and images will be used too. Learning activities are created to ensure students learn in various ways. Not only does it allow students to express their learning differently (the means of action and expression), but also engage with the teach content differently (the means of engagement). The implementation of different media types will benefit primarily the hearing impaired.

Learning Activities will be expressed through group work (discussion) and quizzes (assessments). Evaluating sleep relies on data; therefore there will be a hands-on approach when studying the student’s personal sleeping habits. Students have different learning types. Some students learn better visually, while others through orally. Different types of learning activities allow students to learn despite their learning types.

In order to provide clarity, we will clearly define complex vocabulary related to sleep (CAST, 2024). Through hyperlinks, sentences or images. As well, we will provide clarity to any symbols and icons that is used. Therefore, learners who are not familiar with those visuals will easily familiarize with them.

References

CAST (2024). Universal Design for Learning Guidelines version 3.0. Retrieved from https://udlguidelines.cast.org