The term Universal Design (UD) came from the field of architecture with the goal of creating physical environments and tools for use by as many people as possible, regardless of their abilities and disabilities. This framework has moved to education with the term Universal Design for Learning (UDL) to target the education all students regardless of their abilities, visible and hidden disabilities, and academic levels, to achieve the maximum benefit from the potentials and capabilities of all students with without exception.
The conference will constitute an opportunity for the convergence and integration of theses between various scientific disciplines to establish smart physical, technological and educational environments in our Arab universities.
Universal Design Learning (UDL) is based on variety of scientific research including the fields of neuroscience, brain-based learning, learning sciences, Cognitive psychology, architectural accessibility, accessibility, and assistive technology.
Over time, UDL has become an essential part of the laws of US education departments and the policies of developed countries. It was defined in the US Higher Education Opportunities Act of 2008 (HEOA): “The term Universal Design for Learning means a scientifically valid framework for guiding educational practice that:
- Provides flexibility in the ways information is presented, in the ways students respond or demonstrate knowledge and skills, and in the ways students are engaged.
- Reduces barriers in instruction, provides appropriate accommodations, supports, and challenges, and maintains high achievement expectations for all students, including students with disabilities and students who are limited English proficient. (The Higher Education Opportunity Act (2008); and (Every Student Succeeds Act (2015).
For more information on UDL, you can visit the links below: