Accessible & Engaging Curriculum Project

This strategic project is a response to item 2.1 in the Academic Enterprise Plan – To enhance students’ learning experiences we will ensure our curriculum design and delivery is accessible focused on the activities that prioritise student and staff engagement. Below are details and access to an online module on Universal Design for Learning (UDL). This design approach is highly effective way engage your students by adopting methods that can help to level the playing field for all. This module is based in the UniSA learning management system, and completion will see it appear on your record of Professional development.

Universal Design for Learning in Tertiary Education - Online Module

This online training course in Universal Design for Learning (UDL) was created specifically for staff in the Higher Education and Vocational Education and Training Sector.

Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is a learning design approach that recognises there is no ‘average’ learner. Learners come with a wide variety of prior experiences, abilities, preferences and needs. Courses are often designed for the ‘average’ learner, then individualised adjustments are added as required to support learners with additional needs. A UDL approach requires course design to consider the broadest possible range of needs and preferences of all learners. UDL reduces the need for reasonable adjustments and enhances the experience of all learners, including those with disability. 

Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is a mindset. When applied to learning, UDL enables inclusive curriculum design, development and delivery. It embraces learner variability, designs for it and reduces barriers to learning; creating a greater sense of belonging and empowers learners. 

There are 4 modules in this program. We strongly advise you to undertake the modules in successive order to optimise your understanding of UDL in practice. You can work through the program at your own pace and do not need to complete it in one sitting. You can log out and log back in at any time. You should be able to complete all 4 modules in approximately 90-120 minutes. A short quiz after each module is a good checkpoint for your understanding. A certificate of achievement is awarded upon successful completion of all 4 modules and will appear as part of your record of professional development with UniSA. 

Access UDL Module

More information

Upon completion of this program, you should be able to:

  • outline the Universal Design (UD) principles and the UDL framework
  • demonstrate and apply knowledge of contemporary UDL practices and approaches in tertiary settings
  • apply UDL strategies in practice.

The Australian Government Department of Education, Skills and Employment (DESE) provided funding for the development of this e-Learning program. It is a partnership with the National Disability Coordination Officer (NDCO) Program and the Australian Disability Clearinghouse on Education and Training (ADCET) in collaboration with TAFE SA.

This project was overseen by an advisory committee and would not have been possible without the support and efforts of many tertiary practitioners and professionals. We extend our sincere thanks to all those who participated and contributed (docx 31KB).