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Themed Workshop Request: Universal Design for Learning (UDL)

Empowering Inclusive Education: Integrating Universal Design for Learning (UDL) at U of T 

At the University of Toronto, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible learning environment for all students. Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is a research-based framework developed by the Centre for Applied Special Technology (CAST) that guides the design of learning experiences to accommodate the diverse needs of all learners. By integrating UDL principles into our teaching practices, we remove barriers to learning and provide equitable opportunities for success. 

The Ontario Postsecondary Education Standards Development Committee (2022) and the Ontario Human Rights Commission (2018) have identified UDL as a crucial approach to engaging all students and ensuring their success. The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA)  further emphasizes the importance of accessibility, requiring all public sector organizations to ensure their Internet websites and web content adhere to Level AA standards as defined by the World Wide Web Consortium Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.0. By prioritizing UDL implementation, we not only comply with these standards but also enhance the overall learning experience for our students. 

To support this strategic priority, the Centre for Teaching Support & Innovation (CTSI) is offering two UDL-themed sessions as part of a variety of training opportunities for U of T instructors designed to promote inclusive teaching and learning practices. By participating in these sessions, educators will be equipped with the knowledge and tools to effectively integrate UDL practices into their teaching and foster a more inclusive educational environment at U of T. Join us in our commitment to making higher education accessible and equitable for all learners. 

Format: 1-hour webinar 

This introductory webinar will explore the core principles of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and their relevance in higher education. Participants will identify common barriers to learning and discover how UDL can address these challenges. By the end of the session, attendees will generate effective UDL-informed practices that can be adapted to their teaching and learning contexts. 

Learning Outcomes: 

  • examine the fundamentals of UDL for Higher Education by exploring the core principles of UDL and their relevance in higher education; 
  • investigate learning barriers and UDL opportunities at U of T by identifying common barriers to learning and explore how UDL can address these challenges; 
  • generate effective UDL-informed practices by adapting practical strategies for incorporating UDL into your teaching and learning contexts. 

Format: 2-hour interactive workshop 

Description: This interactive workshop offers a deeper exploration of the UDL framework and its implementation in higher education. Participants will examine UDL principles, explore their intersections with various teaching and learning theories, and develop a personalized UDL implementation plan for diverse educational settings. This session aims to equip educators with practical strategies to create inclusive and accessible learning environments. 

Learning Outcomes: 

  • examine the UDL framework and implementation approaches in Higher Education by gaining a deeper understanding of UDL principles and how to apply them in various educational settings
  • investigate UDL and its intersections with teaching and learning theories and practices
  • create a UDL implementation plan for diverse teaching and learning contexts

NOTE: In-person interactive workshops require a minimum of 15 participants to book. 

Themed Workshop Request: Universal Design for Learning (UDL)

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If you selected the 1-hour webinar, please indicate desired platform:
If you selected the 2-hour interactive workshop, please indicate desired modality:
If an in-person session is selected, CTSI will follow up to obtain the location/address where the 2-hour workshop will take place (units are responsible for managing local room bookings and ensuring proper a/v set-up in the space).
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Faculty liaison contact details – please provide the contact information for a local instructor who can liaise with CTSI facilitators to provide examples and explanations of local teaching practices and materials.
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 CTSI will work to respond within 3 business days of receipt of this form. 

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