Universal design in education aims to create learning materials and resources that can be used by all students regardless of their abilities. It is based on seven principles including equitable use, flexibility, simple and intuitive use, and perceptible information. Implementing universal design does not lower standards but rather allows flexibility for students with varying needs. Examples include software that offers adjustable reading support tools and simple techniques like using high contrast, readable fonts, chunking information, and pairing visual and verbal information.