Universal Design for Instruction and Learning

Universal Design for Instruction (UDI) and Universal Design for Learning (UDL) are two frameworks that can help instructors, trainers, and presenters maximize and promote inclusive learning for an increasingly diverse student population, and reach the broadest audience possible.

Learn More About UDL Videos

Teacher and students in class

Learn what UDL is (and what it isn't).

What Is UDL?
Nicole Gonzales Howell

Professor Howell talks about the difference you can make implementing UDL in your classroom.

UDL in the Classroom

The DO-IT Center defines Universal Design for Instruction as, “...the design of teaching and learning products and environments to be usable by all people, to the greatest extent possible, without the need for adaptation or specialized design.”

DO-IT Center Defines UDI

CAST defines Universal Design for Learning as a framework to improve and optimize teaching and learning for all people. As explained in their introductory video, it promotes the application of the following three UDL principles to eliminate any potential barriers and to create flexible paths to learning:

  • Provide multiple means of representation.
  • Provide multiple means of action and expression of knowledge.
  • Provide multiple means of engagement and choices.

CAST Defines UDL

Watch UDL at a Glance video

Learners Who May Benefit from UDI/UDL

  • Different learning preferences, (e.g., auditory, visual, kinesthetic, social, solitary, etc.)
  • Remote learners
  • Learners from different ethnic, cultural, and socioeconomic backgrounds
  • International students
  • Learners who are working/single parents
  • Non-traditional/Adult learners
  • Learners with disabilities
  • Neurodiverse learners
  • Mature learners

Benefits to Using UDI/UDL

  • Supports a more diverse student population
  • Greater opportunity for students to master content and demonstrate knowledge
  • Reduction in the need for (and time to arrange) accommodations

Additional Resources