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From Access to Greatness: Understanding the Impact of Accessibility and Universal Design
Have you ever thought about the difference between a ramp added to a building after the building is built and a building designed from the start with wide entrances for everyone? One is a fix; the other is a shared vision…a philosophy.
This is the basic, yet essential difference between Accessibility and Universal Design for Learning (UDL).
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Accessibility is our foundational commitment. It ensures that students with disabilities can access and participate in all aspects of learning. It's the necessary ramp, the essential caption, the digital key that unlocks the door to education. And it should be non-negotiable.
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Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is our shared vision. It’s the proactive design of our courses and materials to be usable by all students, to the greatest extent possible, without the need for adaptation. Think: flexible pathways to learning.
This matters to all of us because our goal should not be only to provide access, but to empower greatness. When we design for inclusivity from the start, we create an environment where every student is challenged, engaged, equipped, and motivated to reach their highest potential. We empower our students, and in doing so, we empower ourselves and elevate our entire community.
Sounds familiar? Yes, it's about flourishing.
Let's build this environment together. The Center for Learning with Technology (CLT) is hosting training sessions throughout the semester to equip you (faculty, staff, and adjuncts) with the skills to create digitally accessible documents from the start. Signups are limited, but multiple opportunities are available.
For questions or to learn more about our training sessions, please call 501-279-5224 or email hulearn@harding.edu.
- Naomi Valentine