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The traditional learning system has remained relatively unchanged over the last couple of decades. Classroom work follows one pattern: lectures, notes, and standardised tests. While this approach produces good results for most students, it doesn’t suit everyone.
Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is a different approach. But what makes it different, and does it benefit the learning process?
What is UDL?
Universal Design for Learning is a framework that helps teachers create a more inclusive and flexible learning environment. This way, every student has an equal chance to succeed regardless of their background and potential impairment.
According to a recent study, humans can be divided into three categories based on how they absorb information. For example, about 30% of the population are verbal learners, 65% are visual learners, and the last 5% are experiential learners.
See also: How EdTech is transforming the classroom
This division suggests that while the traditional teaching method works for most people, about 35% of humans might struggle. The “one-size-fits-all” approach of traditional learning isn’t without a flaw. But does UDL create better learning experiences for every student than traditional teaching methods?
UDL education vs traditional learning
In short, the traditional learning method and UDL differ in their core goals. While the traditional approach focuses on the subject students study, UDL focuses on how students interact with and understand that content.
One-size vs. flexible
Traditional classrooms often rely on a single teaching method, such as lectures and written assignments. UDL, on the other hand, offers multiple ways to present information—videos, discussions, hands-on activities and EdTech tools so that students can absorb material in a way that works best for them.
Universal Design for Learning aims to support students with disabilities, language barriers, and different learning styles without requiring separate accommodations.
Personalised learning experience
UDL allows students to engage with material in ways that suit their learning styles, whether through visuals, hands-on activities, or discussions. It also offers flexible ways for students to demonstrate understanding, such as presentations, projects, or verbal explanations. UDL keeps students engaged, reduces barriers, and makes education more accessible for all.
Structure and adaptability
Traditional classrooms follow a fixed structure, while UDL encourages flexibility. Teachers can adjust assignments and offer various participation formats, as well as allow students to choose how they want to complete their work.
Grading purpose
Grades in traditional classrooms often serve as a measure of success or failure. In UDL, however, they act as feedback, guiding students toward learning goals rather than ranking their performance.
See also: EdTech examples that are making a difference in education
UDL effectiveness
Understanding how the UDL method contrasts with traditional learning raises the question of how tangible this method truly is.
Fortunately, some research articles already covered this topic. For example, ResearchGate has posted a study regarding the effectiveness of universal design for learning.
Adopting the UDL principles is highly recommended based on the research that was conducted. Both students and teachers benefit from this framework since it reduces learning barriers. Learning becomes more meaningful with integrated means of representation, action and expression.
3 core principles of UDL
Universal design for learning is built around three core principles: representation, expression, and engagement.
These principles ensure that education becomes more accessible and flexible so that all students have the opportunity to succeed regardless of how they learn.
Representation
Textbooks and lectures aren’t the only way to teach. UDL encourages presenting information in multiple formats—videos, audio, interactive models, and visuals—so students can access content that suits their strengths and needs.
Expression
Instead of relying solely on tests and essays, UDL allows students to demonstrate their knowledge through presentations, projects, discussions, or creative work. This approach recognises that different students express their learning in different ways.
Engagement
Not every student is motivated by the same teaching methods. UDL promotes choices in learning activities, real-world connections, and interactive lessons to keep students interested and involved in the material.
Benefits of UDL
Traditional teaching methods don’t always work for every student. Some struggle with rigid lesson structures, while others lose interest when the material isn’t engaging. Universal Design for Learning (UDL) offers a different approach that makes learning more accessible, engaging, and effective for all students.
Inclusive learning
Not all students learn the same way, and UDL recognises that from the start. By offering multiple ways to access content, participate, and show understanding, UDL removes unnecessary barriers and creates a more inclusive learning environment for students of all abilities.
Increased engagement
When students have choices in how they learn, they’re more likely to stay engaged. UDL uses a mix of teaching methods that make learning more interactive and relevant to students’ interests.
Improved outcomes
By tailoring instruction to different learning styles, UDL aids students not only in absorbing information but also in retaining and applying it. When students are more engaged and have multiple ways to succeed, it results in better performance and confidence.
UDL isn’t about changing what students learn—it’s about changing how they learn so that more students can thrive. By making classrooms more flexible and accessible, UDL benefits everyone.
See also: A new way to learn: how educational technology help students
To sum up
Education should work for everyone, and Universal Design for Learning upholds this point. It shifts the focus from rigid teaching methods to a more flexible and inclusive approach that gives students more opportunities to succeed.
UDL provides multiple ways for students to engage with material, express knowledge, and stay motivated, helping to create classrooms where all learners can thrive.
Adopting UDL principles can make a lasting difference in students’ learning experiences. It’s not about lowering standards—it’s about removing barriers to improve students’ outcomes.
FAQ
Think of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) as a flexible approach to teaching. Instead of assuming all students learn the same way, UDL gives them different ways to access information, participate in lessons, and show what they’ve learned. The goal is to make learning more inclusive and effective for everyone from the start.
Get in touch to learn more about UDL and the tools that empower it.
The UDL teaching is based on three key ideas:
- Representation – Providing information in different formats (text, audio, visuals, interactive models) so students can choose what works best for them.
- Expression – Allowing students to demonstrate what they’ve learned in different ways, such as essays, presentations, projects, or discussions.
- Engagement – Keeping students motivated by offering choices in how they learn, making lessons relevant, and using interactive methods to sustain interest.
The UDL approach is about removing barriers to learning. Instead of making students adapt to a rigid teaching style, it creates a flexible learning environment accommodating different abilities, backgrounds, and preferences. The focus is on how students learn, not just what they know.
Contact us to learn more about UDL and how you can incorporate it.
In short yes, the research suggests UDL is a better alternative to the traditional learning methods. Students who have multiple ways to engage with material and demonstrate their knowledge are more likely to stay motivated, retain information, and succeed academically.
