Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is, on the surface, a powerful framework for ensuring that we design
instruction with all students in mind — particularly creating access for students with disabilities. Yet, despite its name, there is almost no mention of a design process (for example, starting with empathy, a central feature of design thinking). For many teachers, UDL can feel like a checklist to be applied to unit or lesson plans. In this one-day course, we will explore a possible relationship between UDL (its origins and key principles) and Design Thinking (a creative, collaborative, human-centered process). Participants will experience a brief overview of the UDL framework and then be immersed in elements of the design thinking in teams. Everyone will leave the workshop with some resources for thinking about who, how and what you might redesign in your own school/classroom communities.
