Setting Learners up for Success: A Universal Design for Learning Approach to Industry Placement Assessment

Abstract

[EN] The diversity of learners has never been more pronounced with the accessibility to learning through remote means. Universal Design for Learning (UDL) endevours to address some of the challenges posed by their diverse needs. This research aims to explore the perceptions of learners and their academic supervisor on the use of UDL principles as part of the assessment strategy of an Industry Placement module undertaken in a higher education institution. The learner participants were offered assessment feedback in a number of different formats by the supervisor participant; namely typed and video. The results of the research indicate a very positive response from both stakeholders. Multiple means of representation and action/expression were found to help break down barriers for diverse learners and to set them up for success. Scaffolding and content creation methods that are comparable in terms of workload need to be provided to increase adoption by both stakeholders.