Universal design

UNIVERSAL DESIGN

Katie Vanover

UNIVERSAL DESIGN(UD)

Definition: The design of products and environments to be

usable by all people, to the greatest extent possible,

without the need for adaptation or specialized design

When designers apply UD principles, their products and

environments meet the needs of potential users with a

variety of characteristics

Making a product or environment accessible to people

with disabilities often benefits others

UNIVERSAL DESIGN INSTRUCTION (UDI )

Definition: The design of instruction of

products and environments to be usable by

all students, to the greatest extent possible,

without the need for adaptation or

specialized design

Goal: Maximize the learning of students

with a wide range of characteristics by

applying UD principles to all aspects of

instruction

UNIVERSAL DESIGN PRINCIPLES

1. Equitable use: Useful and marketable to people with diverse abilities

2. Flexibility in use: Accommodates wide range of individual abilities

3. Simple and intuitive use: Use is easy to understand, regardless of the user’s

experience, knowledge, language skills or current concentration level

4. Perceptible information: Communicates necessary info effectively

5. Tolerance for error: Minimizes hazards and consequences of accidental

actions

6. Low physical effort: Used efficiently, comfortably, and with a minimum fatigue

7. Size and space for approach and use: Enough size and space is provided for

reach, manipulation, and use regardless of the user's body size, posture, or mobility

EXAMPLES OF UDI

1. Class climate: Adopt practices that reflect high values with respect to both diversity and inclusiveness

2. Interaction: Encourage regular and effective interactions between students and the instructor

3. Physical environments & products: Ensure that facilities, activities, materials, and equipment are

physically accessible to and usable by all students, and that all potential student characteristics are

addressed in safety considerations

4. Delivery methods: Use multiple, accessible instructional methods that are accessible to all learners

5. Info. resources and technology: Ensure that course materials, notes, and other information

resources are engaging, flexible, and accessible for all students.

6. Feedback: Provide specific feedback on a regular basis

7. Assessment: Regularly assess student progress using multiple accessible methods and tools, and

adjust instruction accordingly.

8.Accommodation: Plan for accommodations for students whose needs are not met by the instructional

design

UNIVERSAL DESIGN FOR LEARNINGDefinition: A framework for designing

curricula that enable all individuals to gain

knowledge, skills and enthusiasm for learning

Integration of multiple means of

representation, action and expression, and

engagement into course curriculum

Does not eliminate the need for specific

accommodations for students with disabilities

WORKS CITED

Burgstahler, Sheryl. "Universal Design of Instruction (UDI): Definition, Principles, Guidelines,

and Examples." Universal Design of Instruction (UDI): Definition, Principles, Guidelines, and

Examples. U.S. Department of Education, 2012. Web. 12 Feb. 2013.

Wheelchair Sign. N.d. Photograph. Independent Lense. Independent Lense. Independent

Television Service, 2013. Web. 12 Feb. 2013.

<http://www.pbs.org/independentlens/onaroll/independentliving.html>.

Earth. N.d. Photograph. Acespace. Alliance for Climate Education, 22 Apr. 2011. Web. 12 Feb.

2013. <http://www.acespace.org/blog/2011/04/today-is-a-day-for-our-e-a-r-t-h/>.

Chalkboard Clipart. N.d. Photograph. Clipart Pal. 2013. Web. 12 Feb. 2013.

<http://www.clipartpal.com/clipart_pd/education/chalkboard1.html>.

"Implementing UDL." YouTube. YouTube, 17 Mar. 2010. Web. 12 Feb. 2013.

<http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vr3ardmq0a0>.