Embracing Universal Design for Transformative Learning

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to introduce participants to our journey of integrating Universal Design as a central part of a new Technological University in addressing the challenge of a consistent quality experience for all learners. Adopting and combining both the principles of universal design and universal design for learning is not to make it easier but to offer a framework of principles and guidelines to make education appropriate and challenging for everyone. Ken Robinson wrote 'A vibrant school can nourish an entire community by becoming a source of hope and creative energy.. Poor schools can drain the optimism from all the students and families who depend on it by diminishing their opportunities for growth and development' (1)