21. Applying Universal Instructional Design to Course Websites by Using Course Evaluations

Abstract

The authors explore their use of learner-centred teaching strategies and Universal Instructional Design (UID) on course websites. UID is based on universal design, the design of products and environments intended to be usable by all people to the greatest extent possible (Burgstahler & Cory, 2008).  UID applies universal design to instructional products and environments, including course websites.  Seeking to assess and improve course website accessibility, faculty aimed to consider to what extent they employ UID as a means to promote inclusive practices and greater accessibility. Through the University of Windsor’s university-wide learning management system (CLEW) Learning Community, faculty administered teaching evaluations to students in eight undergraduate courses.  Although the evaluations indicated students considered website course delivery involved a fairly high level of accessibility, future studies are required to determine to what extent course websites reflect UID-based teaching strategies that promote accessibility.