If there’s one thing we know as educators, it’s that no two students are exactly alike. They bring different strengths, challenges, interests, and experiences to the classroom whether it’s a virtual space or face-to-face. And that’s exactly why I love Universal Design for Learning, or UDL. It’s not just a framework. It’s a mindset that helps us design learning experiences that actually work for all students.UDL is all about flexibility and options. It invites us to offer multiple ways for students to engage with content, take in information, and show what they know. More than that, it shifts our mindset from “How do I teach this?” to “How do I support every student in accessing and loving this content?”
Let’s get into the benefits and some real-world ways UDL can transform both K–12 and higher education.
Why UDL? Because One-Size-Fits-All Doesn’t Fit Anyone
When we intentionally design with UDL, here’s what we see in action:
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Students feel seen and supported. When we build options into our design from the beginning, students aren’t left scrambling to request accommodations or feeling like the exception.
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Motivation increases. Students are more likely to engage when they have choice and autonomy in how they learn and show what they know.
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Learning becomes deeper and more meaningful. When students connect with material in a way that works for them, retention and critical thinking naturally improve.
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Barriers are minimized before they become issues. Proactive design makes learning more accessible and makes life easier for both students and educators.
UDL in Online Learning
Online learning offers so many opportunities to build UDL into the design from the ground up. Here are some ways educators are doing it:
Psychology Course Activity Example
Students choose how they want to respond to a prompt about stress and coping techniques:
All students are also provided with a video lecture that includes captions, a transcript, and a downloadable audio version. This gives students control over how they access and engage with content.
STEM Course Assessment Example
For a unit on data analysis, students:
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Explore content using a simulation, an article, or a pre-recorded presentation
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Choose how to demonstrate understanding by submitting a written report, video explanation, or infographic
Tip: Embed clear expectations and scaffolds like rubrics or “starter prompts” to reduce cognitive load without limiting creativity. Built-in options like these support different learning styles, schedules, and strengths.
UDL in the Face-to-Face Classroom
Face-to-face environments also offer so many opportunities for UDL in action.
Higher Ed Biology Class Example
To support learning during lectures, the instructor:
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Shares slides with notes ahead of time
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Uses live polling and short-answer questions to check for understanding
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Offers real-time captioning and records sessions for later viewing
These strategies support students who need more time, prefer visual learning, or miss class due to life circumstances.
High School Science Lesson Example
A teacher designing a lesson on ecosystems includes:
A visual infographic and live demonstration
Hands-on group activities or an individual guided worksheet
A final project where students choose to create a poster, write a short report, or present a skit
Middle School ELA Activity Example
After reading a novel, students can:
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Write a character analysis
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Draw a character map or create a comic strip
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Perform a short skit in groups
Each student finds a way to connect with the story in a format that fits their strengths.
Final Thoughts
UDL isn’t just for students with accommodations. It’s for everyone. When we apply UDL, we create spaces where all students can learn, grow, and succeed. And once you start designing this way, it’s hard to go back.
So here’s your challenge. Pick one place to try UDL this week. Give your students a choice in how they access something, engage with it, or show what they know. Watch what happens.
Spoiler alert: It will probably be more meaningful for your students, and honestly, more energizing for you too.
Want to explore UDL together? I’m always up for a conversation. Let’s keep designing learning that works for every single student.
