Designing for Everyone: UDL in Classrooms and Workplaces

Whether you're an educator striving to improve classroom learning or a corporate trainer developing new materials, Universal Design for Learning (UDL) can help you create engaging and accessible learning experiences for all. Far from being just a buzzword, UDL is a proven, research-based approach that acknowledges the diverse ways people learn, making it equally effective in both K-12 classrooms and corporate settings.

What is UDL?

Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is a research-based educational framework that prioritizes flexibility in instruction and assessment to meet the diverse needs of learners. It advocates for variety in how information is presented, how learners engage, and how they demonstrate knowledge. In simpler terms, UDL is about designing learning experiences that recognize the different ways people learn.

UDL combines principles from frameworks like Understanding by Design (backward planning) with current research on learner variability. Unlike the debunked theory of 'learning styles,' UDL promotes offering choices in how information is presented, processed, and expressed to ensure all learners can succeed.

While UDL is often discussed in the context of K-12 education, it is equally valuable in corporate training settings. By fostering accessibility and inclusivity, UDL adapts lessons and training programs to meet the needs of learners at any age. Whether you're working with a group of elementary school students or leading a team of professionals, UDL offers strategies to enhance learning.

The three key tenets of Universal Design for Learning are: Multiple Means of Representation, Multiple Means of Engagement, and Multiple Means of Action and Expression.

Multiple Means of Representation: How to Present Information in K-12 and Corporate Settings

Sharing information through visuals, interactive presentations, and auditory methods is one of the most discussed elements of UDL. In classroom teaching, this is often described as providing options for how students explore and consume information during individual learning time. For example, students might choose between reading, listening, or watching material that covers the same content.

However, this approach can be time-consuming, especially in schools where the curriculum provides only written materials. Instead, consider a well-balanced lesson that integrates several components to expose students to information multiple times and in varied ways. For instance, a slide deck with visuals accompanied by a spoken lecture, followed by reading materials and a participatory activity, achieves multiple means of representation without necessitating a time-consuming search for materials.

In corporate training, this principle is just as important. For example, a slide deck with oral narration, a written handout, and opportunities for direct interaction (e.g., role-playing or simulations) ensures that all types of learners can engage with the material effectively.

Finally, do not discount the value of revisiting a topic through multiple sessions or lessons. For complex topics, consider combining various methods over time, such as a documentary, a reading, and a lecture, to foster a deep understanding.

Multiple Means of Engagement: Motivating Learners

Multiple Means of Engagement focuses on motivating learners by "selling" the material to them. While Representation is about how material is provided, Engagement addresses how to inspire participation and interest—especially when learners don’t immediately see the value in a topic.

For children, relating lessons to their interests can be highly effective. For example, connecting multiplication to a favorite video game or a real-world scenario can help them see its relevance. Avoid overly trendy examples unless you’re confident in your understanding of them, as students may focus on inaccuracies rather than the lesson itself. Instead, get to know your students' interests or leverage their favorite academic subjects to build connections.

For adults, engagement often hinges on showing how the material relates to their current work. In corporate settings, demonstrate how a new workflow increases efficiency or solves a specific problem. Clearly articulating the “why” behind learning motivates adult learners to fully engage with the content.

Using relatable, real-world examples and highlighting the benefits of learning enables educators and trainers alike to meet UDL’s goal of fostering engagement.

Multiple Means of Action and Expression: Demonstrating Learning

The final tenet of UDL is offering learners multiple ways to participate in and demonstrate their learning. This can range from projects and presentations to traditional tests. While these options are often used for summative assessments, flexibility in individual lessons is equally important.

Across K-12 and corporate settings, providing opportunities for small group discussions, written feedback, or Q&A sessions ensures active participation. Summative assessments, however, often differ between children and adults.

For a K-12 classroom example, imagine a novel study where the goals include understanding themes, summarizing the plot, and connecting the story to students' lives. Final projects could include essays, presentations, podcasts, or even creative formats like art projects with an artist’s statement. Providing a rubric ahead of time ensures students understand expectations and allows them to express learning in ways that reflect their strengths.

For corporate learners, assessment might involve written summaries of key takeaways, team presentations, or practical demonstrations of new skills. Providing employees the option to present ideas or even offer rebuttals to new workflows can increase engagement and buy-in, but this is mainly effective only when learners feel heard and respected.

Final Thoughts

In both classrooms and corporate training environments, Universal Design for Learning fosters inclusivity and accessibility, ensuring that all learners—regardless of age or background—have an opportunity to succeed. By embracing UDL, educators and trainers can design learning experiences that are not only flexible and inclusive but also deeply engaging and effective. Whether you’re teaching ten-year-olds or training professionals, UDL offers practical strategies to create meaningful learning opportunities.

Happy teaching!