An Exploration of Universal Design for Learning (U.D.L.) as a teaching and learning tool in the classroom

Course is aimed at teaching participants about Universal Design for Learning (U.D.L.) and exploring various ways how Universal Design for Learning (U.D.L.) guidelines can be implemented within the classroom.

Participants will be able to complete the following:

• Define what is meant by Universal Design for Learning (U.D.L.)
• Analyse the various principles of the Universal Design for Learning (U.D.L.) Framework
• Identify various guidelines and considerations relating to each Universal Design for Learning (U.D.L.) principle for classroom use
• Explore the advantages and disadvantages of Universal Design for Learning (U.D.L.)

Facilitator: John A. Phayer

John A. Phayer is a former post-graduate student of the University of Limerick having completed a Specialist Diploma in Teaching, Learning and Scholarship (First Class Hons) and also completed an M.A. in Education (Research) in Mary Immaculate College on the following thesis title: “Dyslexia and Assistive Technology in Education: What benefits can be gained by third level students with Dyslexia from the use of the Assistive Technology software package, TextHelp?” under the supervision of Mr. Brendan Barry. For many years, John has been engaged in various teaching roles, particularly, teaching students with dyslexia and dyspraxia how to operate various types of special educational technologies for use in their studies in addition to delivering many ICT in SEN in-service courses for primary and post-primary teachers in different Education Centres around Ireland. John has also been involved in teaching family history - genealogy modules in addition to researching and publishing different family history - local history projects pertaining to his family. John has also written various articles at both national and international level on the above disciplines and can be contacted at: johnphayer@yahoo.co.uk for further correspondence.