Proceedings of the 9th International Conference on Advanced Research in Teaching and Education
Year: 2024
DOI:
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Universal Design for Learning: A Gateway to Expanding Educational Opportunities
Lela Tavdgiridze, Tatia Nakashidze-Makharadze, Neli Akhvlediani, Natia Abashidze
ABSTRACT:
Universal Design for Learning (UDL) represents a pedagogical framework designed to establish an inclusive and flexible instructional model that accommodates students’ diverse needs, abilities, interests, and learning modalities. This research evaluates two primary dimensions: first, the extent to which UDL implementation facilitates comprehensive student inclusion in both theoretical lectures and practical sessions while enhancing academic engagement; and second, the efficacy of UDL-aligned didactic methods and learning strategies embedded within the curriculum in fostering increased student motivation. To achieve the research objectives, both quantitative and qualitative research methods were employed. The investigation encompassed comprehensive desk research, systematic analysis of pertinent scholarly literature, thorough examination of course syllabi, and the development of structured questionnaires for both students and teachers. The empirical findings and subsequent analysis will be presented within the main body of the article. The article highlights: practical exemplars of UDL principles implemented across various academic disciplines to ensure pedagogical accessibility and effectiveness for the entire student population; methodological frameworks for transforming traditional instructional approaches into inclusive models through the integration of multimedia resources, differentiated assessment strategies, and technological innovations in the educational process. This work serves as a guide for UDL practitioners and researchers, offering adaptable frameworks for higher education institutions while promoting the cultivation of an inclusive and innovative teaching culture, that supports continuous improvement of the process.
keywords: Differentiated Instruction, Inclusive education, Modern Strategies; Multimedia; Motivation