Unpacking the digital backpack for the adult learner - a universal design for learning approach

Abstract

Technology is able to overlap curriculum with learning by providing network resources, connectivity and organization. Learners can choose to move away from tangible learning resources and house them within network or cloud- based applications. The connectivity is a key advantage that provides learners easy access. The technology also allows the learner to organise and accomplish their learning tasks more efficiently. A learner’s digital backpack in the practice of pedagogy is an example of such a concept. A digital backpack is exactly what it sounds like: a virtual bag with an array of digital tools, resources, and instructional materials selected to engage and support learners. This article presents the digital backpack for adult learners. The backpack is anchored on the design concepts and principles of Universal Design for Learning (UDL), an instructional design framework that supports diverse means of knowledge representation to develop learner’s knowledge and understanding.