Abstract Bringing UDL to International Scale: Connections with Programs in India and Beyond

Goals:

• Identify the learning challenges for persons with disabilities in a vocationally-focused environment, as well as those of educators in India in these COVID times.
• Consider examples of how UDL applies in a training program for adults with varied needs, and in online teacher inservice training in India.
• Recognize the importance of culture and local context when implementing UDL in higher education and beyond in other countries.

Description:

International efforts in various levels of education from the book, Universal Access Through Inclusive Instructional Design: International Perspectives on UDL, offer an initial focus for participants.  Learning challenges existing around the world, and more specifically those in India, are explored.  Hands-on UDL staff training at OM Creations, an arts-focused vocational program for adults with intellectual and developmental challenges (Mumbai, India) and an online teacher in-service webinar hosted by a Mumbai university, provide examples of how UDL can increase learner engagement, participation and effectiveness.  The session demonstrates how UDL opened doors to new ideas and learning opportunities in India, and shares other examples from around the world. Participant discussion time is included.

Lead Contact/Presenter: Dr. Elizabeth M. Dalton – dalton.ed.services.intl@gmail.com

Co-presenters:

Dr. Radhike Khanna – radhike@gmail.com

Dr. Susie L. Gronseth – slgronseth@uh.edu