Varied Pathways of a UDL Journey: Strategic Inclusive Design Reflections and Next Steps
Abstract: Since the Universal Design for Learning (UDL) framework was conceptualized nearly three decades ago by David Rose and the Center for Applied Special Technology (CAST), many educators have adopted the framework as a lens by which they view the inclusive design of curriculum and educational environments. It is a framework that challenges policies relating to providing equitable education of all learners, and it prioritizes universal access as an intentional, strategic element of instructional design. In the past decade, UDL has had increasing global adoption. This session chronicles educator journeys in how UDL has become an integral part of their educational philosophies and instructional practices. Panelists represent a diversity of perspectives from the SITE UDL-SIG, including preK-12 educational settings, pre-service and in-service teacher training, higher education, non-profit, policy, administration, and adult learning. The panelists describe their UDL journeys and discuss priorities for UDL development and implementation moving forward.