Universal Design for Learning (UDL) Learning Guide

About this guide

Today’s classrooms are more diverse than ever, with students bringing unique understandings and varied life experiences. To enhance the student experience, Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles embrace access and inclusivity.

UDL is a research-based framework that removes barriers to learning and supports students in multiple ways of accessing knowledge and demonstrating their learning.

In this guide, we will explore the three principles of UDL, design benefits, applications in the classroom experience and ways to evaluate its effects. We finish with examples in action from UVic’s own teaching instructors and staff.

Last updated: February 5, 2024

Learning Objectives

  1. Understand the principles and benefits of universal design for learning
  2. Apply universal design for learning principles to course design and personal teaching contexts in manageable ways
  3. Evaluate and enhance instructional practices

Looking for more on UDL?

We are available to support you in training for UDL:

  • Request a workshop
  • Book a consultation
  • Drop-in live support

Share your feedback!

We are actively committed to increasing the accessibility, usability, diversity, and inclusivity of our materials. If you experience any barriers to learning in this course, please contact us to let us. We also welcome any suggestions for future topics you would like us to cover.

Explore the sections

Student wearing headset and holding a smart phone while writing in a notebook in a library, with a mug and glasses in the background.

UDL Principles

Review the three principles of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) that can be used in your course design

Student wearing headset and holding a smart phone while writing in a notebook in a library, with a mug and glasses in the background.

Applying UDL Practices

Learn practical strategies and tools to ensure your course materials and instructional methods are designed in an inclusive and accessible manner

Student wearing headset and holding a smart phone while writing in a notebook in a library, with a mug and glasses in the background.

Assessing Impact

Learn ways to assess the impact of including accessible and inclusive principles in your teaching

Student wearing headset and holding a smart phone while writing in a notebook in a library, with a mug and glasses in the background.

Examples at UVic

Explore ways instructors and teaching staff are using UDL principles in their classroom and beyond (following the CAST framework)

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This page was last updated:

June 1, 2023

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