Universal Design & Educationa presentation by: Katharine Zaback

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What is Universal Design?“the design of products and environments to be usable by all 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 the unique differences in people. It is not about accommodating, but

designing for the whole of the student population. Educational design can 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…

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

people who are outside of this standard cannot use it.

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

through it, or wheelchair-bound.

A More Concrete Example…

However, we can apply Universal Design and

create a door that is usable by all people.

This door opens automatically, so everyone

can use it. Therefore, everyone benefits.

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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 students are able to effectively communicate

3Physical EnvironmentEnsure that activities, materials, and

equipment are physically accessible and effective for all students

4Delivery MethodsUse multiple instructional methods

that are accessible to all learners

65AccommodationPlan to accommodate students whose needs are not met by the instructional

design FeedbackProvide specific feedback

on a regular basis

7Resources & TechnologyMake sure course materials, notes, and

informational resources are flexible and engaging for all students

8AssessmentRegularly assess students using

multiple 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