A university educators’ guide to universal design for learning
Espinoza Ramos, G., Dermaku Hajdini, M. and Ghumran, N. 2026. A university educators’ guide to universal design for learning. THE Campus of Times High Education.
Espinoza Ramos, G., Dermaku Hajdini, M. and Ghumran, N. 2026. A university educators’ guide to universal design for learning. THE Campus of Times High Education.
| Title | A university educators’ guide to universal design for learning |
|---|---|
| Authors | Espinoza Ramos, G., Dermaku Hajdini, M. and Ghumran, N. |
| Description | This article examines Universal Design for Learning (UDL), which provides a practical and inclusive framework for sustaining and enhancing engagement in higher education. Drawing on findings from a students-as-co-creators project involving 71 students, the article explains the three core UDL principles—multiple means of representation, action and expression, and engagement—and demonstrates how these can be embedded into course design. It provides five evidence-informed recommendations: diversifying learning materials, offering flexible assessment formats, adopting blended learning approaches, connecting learning to real-world contexts, and fostering supportive lecturer–student relationships. While acknowledging critiques such as cognitive overload and the limits of “universality,” the article concludes that thoughtfully implemented UDL can promote accessibility, motivation, and equity, enabling educators to create more inclusive and effective learning environments. |
| Publication dates | |
| Published | 20 Feb 2026 |
| Keywords | Flexible course design |
| Student engagement | |
| Curricula development | |
| Universal Design for Learning | |
| Inclusive education | |
| Learning differences | |
| Date | 20 Feb 2026 |
| Publisher | THE Campus of Times High Education |
| Web address (URL) | https://www.timeshighereducation.com/campus/university-educators-guide-universal-design-learning |