Definition
"Universal design is 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." - Ron Mace
The universal design concept has its roots in architecture and product design, where simple physical access is the goal. Designers who practice the concepts of universal design create buildings or structures that will accommodate the vast array of users, including those with disabilities. The goal is to have the adapted environment be subtle and well-integrated into the design. The benefit of the design is its increased usability for everyone. Detailed information on the seven principles of Universal Design can be found at The Center for Universal Design.
Universal Design for Learning
Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is a paradigm developed by the Center for Applied Special Technology (CAST) for teaching, learning and the development, selection and use of curriculum materials. UDL attempts to strike a balance between maximum access and maximum learning. (Meyer, A., O'Neill, L. March 2000)
Brain Systems Involved in Learning
Research shows that there are three brain systems involved in learning tasks: recognition systems identify patterns; strategic systems generate patterns; and affective systems determine priorities. (Meyer, A., O'Neill, L. May, 2000) UDL is seen as a framework for responding to individual differences through technology.
Students learn differently. Because they are learners of varied backgrounds, interests, abilities and levels of expertise, tools that are developed to augment learning must be flexible to support the three above-mentioned brain systems. Ways to achieve this include:
- Multiple representations of content, providing options to suit various recognition systems.
- Multiple means of expression and control, providing options to support different strategic systems.
- Multiple options for engagement, which act upon the affective systems, providing alternative ways to attract and hold the student's attention and motivate them to learn. (Meyer, A., O'Neill, L. May 2000)
Because no single curriculum or software can provide all that is needed to create a UDL environment, finding the right combination of materials is key. Computer devices, software programs, materials, web sites, assistive technology can all become integral components in that environment. Some students thrive in lectures, others study effectively from their textbooks, while still others need a combination of both and visual representations to augment their learning of the material. A student who tends to be artistic can find an image easier to comprehend than a verbal description, but a deaf student will be unable to grasp the subject if only a verbal description is given.
"UDL extends the concept of universal design in two ways: 1) it applies the idea of built-in flexibility to curricular materials, and 2) it requires that teachers use these flexible materials to provide more than "access" to help students learn." (Meyer, A. Mar 2000). Individuals wishing to practice UDL with traditional materials only, such as textbooks and videotapes, would be faced with problems from the onset. The key element of UDL is flexibility.
Where to find out more about Universal Design for Learning:
- CAST is an educational organization that explores how technology can be used to expand opportunities for all people, including those with disabilities. Their web site can be found at : http://www.cast.org
- The ERIC/OSDEP Special Project of the ERIC Clearinghouse on Disabilities and Gifted Education (ERIC EC) has published a "A Curriculum Every Student can Use: Design Principles for Student Access". It is available from the Clearinghouse.
- The TRACE Center is a research, development and resource center that focuses on increasing access to computers and information technologies for people with disabilities. The Center's web site includes a section on "Designing a More Usable World" which employs universal design features. Visit: http://trace.wisc.edu
- EASI (Equal Access to Software and Information) is a project of the Teaching, Learning, and Technology Group, an affiliate of the American Association for Higher Education. EASI provides information in the area of access-to-information technologies by individuals with disabilities. http://www.rit.edu/~easi/