Themed Workshop Request: Universal Design for Learning
At the University of Toronto, we are committed to fostering accessible and inclusive learning experiences for all students. Universal Design for Learning (UDL)—a research-informed framework developed by the Centre for Applied Special Technology (CAST)—supports this commitment by proactively reducing barriers and embracing learner variability.
Provincial guidance, including the Ontario Human Rights Commission (2018) and the Postsecondary Education Standards Development Committee (2022), identifies UDL as a key approach for creating equitable learning experiences. By integrating UDL into teaching and course design, instructors help ensure that all students have meaningful opportunities to engage and succeed.
To support this priority, the Centre for Teaching Support & Innovation (CTSI) offers requestable department-based programming that enables instructors to explore inclusive course design within their local teaching contexts. These offerings complement CTSI’s broader UDL programming ecosystem by creating space for focused, context-specific engagement.
Requestable Department Programming
Departments and instructor cohorts may request one of the following formats:
Course Design Studio
Duration: 60 minutes
This focused session introduces inclusive course design through a UDL lens. Instructors explore one course design priority relevant to their context—such as assessment design, student engagement, or accessible course materials—and consider practical ways to design for learner variability. Participants are guided through practical, “plus-one” design strategies that can be applied immediately within their courses.
Outcomes:
- Shared understanding of a key course design priority within a departmental context
- Practical strategies to support accessible and flexible learning experiences
- Concrete ideas for adapting an aspect of an existing course
Course Design Retreat
Duration: 1 day
This one-day facilitated retreat provides structured time and guidance for instructors to plan or redesign a course using a UDL-informed approach. Participants engage in guided activities, collaborative discussion, and dedicated course design time.
Outcomes:
- Course planning and redesign outputs
- Application of UDL to course design decisions
- Structured time for focused development work
Planning and Timing
To support effective planning and facilitation, CTSI requires advance notice for all requestable programming:
- a minimum of 1 month’s notice for a 60-minute Course Design Studio
- a minimum of 2 months’ notice for a full-day Course Design Retreat
This ensures sufficient time to identify facilitators and prepare materials tailored to your context.
Request UDL Programming
CTSI will respond within 3 business days of receiving your request.