Universal design for learning: enhancing achievement and employment of STEM students with disabilities

作者：Izzo Margaretha Vreeburg^*; Bauer William M

来源：Universal Access in the Information Society, 2015, 14(1): 17-27.

DOI：10.1007/s10209-013-0332-1

• Universal design for learning
• Students with disabilities
• Technology
• Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM)
• Achievement
• Employment

This article defines universal design for learning (UDL) and presents examples of how universally designed technology hardware and software applications benefit students with disabilities who are majoring in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) majors. When digital technologies are developed without incorporating accessible design features, persons with disabilities cannot access required information to interact with the information society. However, when accessible technology and instruction are provided using UDL principles, research indicates that many students benefit with increased achievement. Learning through universally designed and accessible technology is essential for students with disabilities who, without access, would not gain the skills needed to complete their degrees and access employment and a life of self-sufficiency. UDL strategies enhance learning for all students, including students with disabilities who are majoring in STEM, which are among the most rigorous academic disciplines, but also among the most financially rewarding careers.

• 出版日期2015-3