Introduction to Backwards Design and UDL

Facilitators: 
Cristina D’Amico, Faculty Liaison Coordinator, Graduate Student Development & TA Training
Michal Kasprzak, Assistant Director, CTSI/TATP

In this workshop, we will offer a dual introduction to two key concepts in effective and inclusive course design: “Backward Design” and “Universal Design for Learning (UDL).” Participants will understand how to prioritize their intended learning outcomes (Wiggins and McTighe, 2005) in their course design, and how to use these outcomes to structure assessments, lectures, and in-class engagements with students. We will simultaneously consider the core principles of UDL (multiple means of expression, representation, and action & expression) and how to incorporate these modalities into your course learning outcomes. By the end of the workshop, participants will be able to implement inclusive thinking in the construction of their course learning outcomes.