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Universal Design for Learning
The Action & Expression Principle

Design Options for Interaction

The UDL guideline “Design Options for InteractionOpens in a new window” prompts us to provide accessible materials and learning spaces within which all learners can interact. Under this guideline, interaction refers to both technologies and the physical design of learning spaces. The considerations under this guideline ask us to reflect on how variable learners might access and navigate through the learning materials and spaces we design for a lesson, course and/or program. By designing options for interaction, we consider both the possibilities and limits of our learning spaces. If our classroom tables are bolted into rows, there’s not much we can do about the furniture arrangement; however, can we build in activities for learners to move through the space (both physically and cognitively) in other ways? Remember you can reach out to an accessible learning specialist and/or assistive technologist if you’re not sure where to start.

Let’s connect with Naomi about her experience supporting educators with this guideline.

Design Options for Interaction2:01 min
Reflect

Feel free to write, draw, or audio record your thoughts on this prompt. How did the COVID-19 pandemic affect your ability to access and use technology-mediated communication? What have you noticed about how your learners express themselves using technology-mediated communication?

Next sectionTechnology and Action & Expression