Course design helps increase student engagement, learning, and overall success. Why is this important? While colleges still grapple with diversifying student bodies, many diverse learners are marginalized because of identity factors such as age, race/ethnicity, disability, socioeconomic status (among others). We could fail to meet the individual needs of today's learners without embracing student variability.
Instructors must adopt inclusive course design strategies. Inclusive course designs are responsive to the individual needs of learners. For example, Universal Design for Learning (UDL) provides a framework for using multiple means of representation, engagement, action and expression. Pedagogical partnerships promote collaboration between instructors and students throughout the term.
Learners today need active participation, collaboration, and welcoming spaces where they matter. Inclusive course designs will enrich educational experiences for everyone while encouraging deeper connections to the course.
