Featured Article

Instructor Course Model Demonstrates Anti-Anxiety Course Design

Instructor Course Model Demonstrates Anti-Anxiety Course Design

Joanna Krajewski

Joanna Krajewski thinks about student agency from a holistic perspective. As an instructor in, and Director of, the Online MA in Strategic Communication in the School of Journalism and Mass Communication, she utilizes course design strategies that transform the traditional student-professor dynamic into a collaborative partnership. Joanna’s students are encouraged to select course content and assignment submission options that align with their interests and personal growth needs. 

 

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Empowering Learners with Universal Design for Learning

In this month's newsletter, we explore strategies and resources on Universal Design for Learning (UDL), an educational framework that promotes inclusive teaching practices by providing multiple means of representation, engagement, and expression. UDL encourages flexible learning environments that drive student success.

Practical Pedagogy

Practical Pedagogy

Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is one way to think proactively about supporting student needs. Designing your course with UDL in mind can help:

  • Ensure equal access to learning opportunities for all
  • Offer personalized, flexible learning experiences
  • Promote a welcoming and inclusive learning environment
  • Encourage engagement through varied approaches
     

Universal Design for Learning is an educational framework that leverages scientific knowledge about human learning processes to create flexible learning environments. UDL emphasizes varied teaching methods rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. It aims to provide all students with equal opportunities to succeed by removing barriers and accommodating individual differences. Review the quick guide for an introduction (or refresher) on the topic, examples of how others have integrated UDL practices, as well as a few concrete strategies you can begin applying today. 
 

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Newsletter Archive

Past issues and articles are available in the newsletter archive.

Upcoming Events

Upcoming Events

Highlighting on-demand resources and upcoming events to support your online teaching practice:

Applying Universal Design for Learners - May 9-10, 2024

Discover new ways to reach your learners! Leverage generative AI to proactively address diverse learning needs and apply strategies that offer various ways for action, expression, engagement, and representation (2-hour workshop, offered monthly through Quality Matters).

Global Accessibility Awareness Day - May 16, 2024

Register today for the free, virtual event "Built Without Barriers" to discuss strategies for removing barriers and increasing access across a wide variety of contexts (hosted by University of Minnesota).

31 Days of Universal Design for Learning

Watch Tom Tobin’s keynote, recorded at last year’s ICON Day (hosted by our campus partners in the Office of Teaching, Learning, & Technology), for practical tips on implementing UDL strategies in your teaching.

Want more on-demand content?

Want more on-demand content?

Visit the Quality Matters (QM) archives and Online Learning Consortium (OLC) pre-recorded webinars list for trending topics, best practices, and expert insights. *Create an account with your UIOWA email to access additional benefits and discounts.