Partnership of UDL (Universal Design for Learning) and Captivate

Course designs should aim to progress the learner on the continuum from novice to expert and allow participants to engage with the content in ways that support lifelong learning. Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is a framework to assist curriculum developers in designing curricula to reduce barriers, as well as optimize levels of challenge and support, to meet the needs of all learners.

UDL focuses on three main principles: content representation, content engagement, and learning expression. The following is a brief description of each principle followed by suggestions on how to address each principle in content designs.

Multiple means of representation provides learners various ways of acquiring information and knowledge. Replace slide text with graphics – where appropriate create graphics that display content when presented in audio files Integrate images to support slide text Insert multimedia such as audio or video where possible Multiple means of engagement aims to tap into learners’ interests, challenge them appropriately, and motivate them to learn.