Engaging Disability & Universal Design in the Writing Center
Heather Lang
Assistant Director, FSU Reading and Writing Center
Spring 2017
Universal Design
Access + Pedagogy
Universal Design
According to the Higher Education Opportunity Act of 2008, Universal Design for Learning:
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provides flexibility in the ways information is presented, in the ways students respond or demonstrate knowledge and skills, and in the ways students are engaged; and
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reduces barriers in instruction, provides appropriate accommodations, supports, and challenges, and maintains high achievement expectations for all students, including students with disabilities and students who are limited English proficient.
Universal Design for Learning
The principal of Universal Design originated in architecture. Architect Ronald L. Mace coined the term and used it to emphasize that, when designing a building, architects should try to anticipate as many diverse needs and populations as possible. Since then, universal design has been applied to other production areas and to education. Universal design generally abides by seven principles.
