“The learning context exerts very strong effects on whether a particular individual characteristic becomes an impediment to learning.”
― Anne Meyer, Universal Design for Learning: Theory and Practice

About Universal Design for Learning

Universal Design is an approach to designing learning environments, such as Canvas, with accessibility in mind. It is both flexible and accommodating in that it focuses on changing the methods of presenting learning content rather than making the student change their approach to learning. Thus, the learner is at the center of Universal Design.

Universal Design has three core principles:

1. Multiple means of Engagement

Stimulate interest and motivation by empowering students to participate.

2. Multiple means of Representation

Present information and content in ways that resonate for effective learning.

3. Multiple means of Action and Expression

Allow students to demonstrate their knowledge in ways that utilize their strengths.

For a detailed overview of the principles and meanings of UDL, visit the UDL Guidelines on the CAST website (Links to an external site.).

How Universal Design Applies to Canvas

Implementing best practices for Universal Design in Canvas involves maximizing the features of Canvas for accessibility. The tools to make courses accessible for all students are built into Canvas' features. From video lectures to assignment submissions, every aspect of a Canvas course should be considered.

By making Canvas courses with Universal Design in mind, instructors will be able to:

1. Use technology effectively: With online learning in Canvas, students need to be able to use and access technologies regardless of differences in ability. Universal Design empowers educators to use technology in ways that allow all students to participate in their courses equally. Goals like student engagement and community building, along with course outcomes, are better achieved through Universal Design.

2. Design courses efficiently: Employing Universal Design is beneficial for instructors as well as students. It provides a standardized way to design your courses so that they are optimized for accessibility. By following the methods in this guide, you will learn the best practices and be able to repeat them in future courses.

3. Develop advanced skills: Universal Design is not just a checklist or recipe book for how to set up your course. It's a new way of thinking, and in learning it, you will become more familiar with the Canvas features and functions. This means you can better customize your course, giving it personality in addition to functionality.