UDL-Aligned Design in Technology-Enabled Higher Education

Presentation Resources: https://ecampusontario.pressbooks.pub... This presentation examines how Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles can be operationalized in technology-enabled higher education through interactive and multimedia design. Building from recent digital learning development projects, the session explores how the UDL principles of Engagement, Representation, and Action and Expression informed the creation of faculty-facing professional learning resources. These resources include interactive guides, micro-certificate content, course updates aligned with UDL 3.0, and multimedia components supporting accessibility training. Examples such as scenario-based learning, escape room activities, AI-generated personas, and multimodal content created with platforms like Genially and Creator+ illustrate how intentional design choices can expand accessibility and create flexible pathways for learning. The presentation also highlights collaborative processes used to test accessibility, gather user feedback, and refine design elements. These practices reflect research emphasizing the importance of iterative design, participatory approaches, and proactive accessibility in digital learning environments (CAST, 2018; Dolmage, 2017). By foregrounding applied examples, the session demonstrates how UDL can support equity in faculty development by addressing diverse learner needs and reducing barriers to engagement. Participants will leave with practical strategies for integrating UDL principles into technology-enabled courses and professional learning materials. Learning outcomes: Participants will be able to 1) identify ways multimedia and interactive design can operationalize UDL principles, 2) evaluate digital learning resources through a UDL-informed lens, and 3) apply strategies to enhance accessibility and engagement in their own contexts.