Universal Design is an approach to designing environments and products that are usable by people of all abilities without need for adaptation or specialized design. Universal Design for Learning applies this concept to education by creating curriculum that meets the needs of all learners by offering multiple means of representation, expression, and engagement. Implementing Universal Design for Learning in the classroom involves applying its three main principles: providing options for perception, action and expression, and learner engagement.

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Universal Design
By Mamie Hobbs

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Universal Design Overview
 Universal Design is the design of
environments and products that can
be used by all people without
adaptation need and special design.
 When UD principles are used, these
environments and products are able to
meet needs of all users.
 UD realizes the importance and value
of inclusiveness and diversity.

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Universal Design For Learning
 Many classrooms are designed
around the needs of an “average
student.” Studies have shown that
there really aren’t any “average
students.”
 Universal Design for Learning is
focused on the idea of creating
curriculum that meets all learners
needs. This includes every student-
bilingual, gifted, struggling, etc.
 UDL is designed to create
experiences in learning for a variety of
students in which all learners can be
successful.

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Curriculum Designed For All
Learners
 Three main principles when implementing UDL in
the Classroom:
 1) Multiple means of representation
 Provide options for perception, language/symbols,
and comprehension
 2) Multiple means of expression and action to
demonstrate what they know
 Provide options for physical actions,
fluency/expressive skills, and executive functions
 3) Multiple ways to engage all learners
 Provide options for gaining interest, sustaining
effort/persistence, and self-regulation

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Using UDL In Your Classroom
 Incorporating UDL in a school or
specific classroom takes courage to
step out of the box by challenging
others beliefs and your own.
 Working together with other teachers
is a great tool when first implementing
UDL and sustaining it within your
classroom and school.
 While planning:
 Identify the different learning styles of
your students
 Identify possible barriers