Universal Design & Educationa presentation by: Katharine Zaback

What is Universal Design?“the design of products and environments to be usable byall people, to the greatest extent possible, without the need

for adaptation or specialized design”(www.ncsu.edu/project/design-projects/udi/center-for-universal-design/the-principles-of-universal-design).

How can this apply to education?Universal Design (UD) is about accessibility and celebrating theunique differences in people. It is not about accommodating, but

designing for the whole of the student population. Educational designcan follow the ideas of UD by implementing strategies that provide

for students with a wide range of ethnic backgrounds, languages skills,abilities and disabilities.

A More Concrete Example…

This is a standard door. It worksfor most people (the average) but

people who are outside of thisstandard cannot use it.

For example, people too short toreach the door, too tall to get

through it, or wheelchair-bound.

A More Concrete Example…

However, we can applyUniversal Design and

create a door that is usableby all people.

This door opensautomatically, so everyone

can use it. Therefore,everyone benefits.

Where Can We ApplyUniversal Design

In The World of Education?

21Classroom ClimateReflect values that respect diversity

and demonstrate inclusiveness InteractionEncourage interaction amongst

students, and make sure all studentsare able to effectively communicate

3Physical EnvironmentEnsure that activities, materials, andequipment are physically accessible

and effective for all students

4Delivery MethodsUse multiple instructional methods

that are accessible to all learners

65AccommodationPlan to accommodate students whoseneeds are not met by the instructional

design FeedbackProvide specific feedback

on a regular basis

7Resources & TechnologyMake sure course materials, notes, and

informational resources are flexibleand engaging for all students 8Assessment

Regularly assess students usingmultiple methods for different learners

Work Cited

1. http://www.washington.edu/doit/Brochures/Academics/instruction.html

2. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vr3ardmq0a0&feature=relmfu

3. www.ncsu.edu/project/design-projects/udi/center-for-universal-design/the-principles-of-universal-design