Learning from COVID-19: Universal Design for Learning Implementation Prior to and During a Pandemic

Jennifer Renée Kilpatrick, Suzanne Ehrlich, Michelle Bartlett

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

This study examined whether higher education faculty knowingly and/or unknowingly applied UDL principles prior to and during the COVID-19 rapid online teaching and learning (ROTL) transition. Researchers collected data through a survey that was disseminated nationwide and completed by higher education faculty (n = 38). Findings included a shift in instruction modality where 50 percent of synchronous in person instruction moved to asynchronous online instruction or optional synchronous remote instruction. Additionally, there was an unsurprising, considerable increase in the use of technology to support student engagement with course content. Researchers identified themes in the barriers (e.g., time, resources, training) to applying UDL principles both prior to and during the COVID-19 ROTL transition. Suggestions for overcoming those barriers are also included.
Original languageAmerican English
Pages (from-to)137-158
Number of pages22
JournalThe Journal of Applied Instructional Design
Volume10
Issue number1
StatePublished - 2021

Keywords

  • Instructional Design
  • faculty
  • Higher Education
  • Universal design for learning
  • COVID-19 Pandemic

Disciplines

  • Psychology
  • Medical Education
  • Higher Education

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