Universal learning design is a design that works to remove unnecessary barriers and provide supports for all, rather than targeting the individual.
Another example of universal design in engineering is the installation of elevators in buildings, what some view as a convenience is an essential part of other’s lives and may become essential in theirs as well.
For an able-bodied person they can easily make it through their day to day and week to week lives without using an elevator. When looking for a place to live that might not even cross their mind. The lack of accessibility may not ever impede them, or they will come to truly appreciate an elevator when they buy a new couch, break their ankle or have a baby and now have a need for a stroller to leave the house.
The inclusion of alternate means of access to higher floors is essential for some, but beneficial for all. Mobility challenges can arise for anyone at any point of time and having the facilities in place to accommodate these needs is essential. They may not realize the barrier of climbing stairs until they are directly faced with it, and if they lack the support of an elevator they will struggle.
For some using an elevator may never be required in their lives, but they will still enjoy using it for the convenience. For others using the elevator is integral to living their lives to their full potential and being able to safely leave the house. This is a great example how universal design can be essential for some and beneficial to all.
References
Chen, Eva. The Importance of Universal Design for Learning. Harvard Graduate School of Education, 2008, Usable Knowledge. retrieved from: The Importance of Universal Design for Learning | Harvard Graduate School of Education
Meyer, Anne, et al. Universal Design for Learning: Theory and Practice. CAST Professional Publishing, an Imprint of CAST, Inc., 2014, UDL Theory Practice, retrieved from: udltheorypractice.cast.org/
March 5, 2023 at 3:24 pm
Hi Selina!
I love your blog post this week and I think the elevator example is a great way to highlight the importance of accessibility and how it can be translated into our learning. Understanding that not every learner has the same requirements to support their learning is essential, and that instructors must make their learning resources accessible to everyone. Giving everyone the same opportunities to succeed in their education by supplying diverse alternatives is vital and can even benefit others who might not require such features such as how the elevator provides convenience for able-bodied individuals. Overall, I think you made great points about how creating an accessible environment supports everyone regardless of their ability!
March 9, 2023 at 9:35 am
Hi Selina. That is a great example of universal design in engineering. However, how do we know what particular barriers students can experience in technology-mediated environments; so we do not create them? How do we ensure that everyone can benefit from taking the class and feel included? This could be less obvious than an elevator design :).