In this seminar, we outlined the principles of UDL focusing on the why, how and what of learning. We shared with you our experiences of completing the National Forum for the Enhancement of Teaching and Learning in Higher Education’s (NFETLHE’s) UDL Digital Badge which we completed during the 2020-21 academic year. We provided an insight into what was involved and how it has impacted our thinking and practice in MTU.

"Our classrooms have become more diverse and complex in terms of both student culture and ability, but the question is, do students see themselves reflected in our practice? This workshop provided participants with an introduction to UDL (Universal Design for Learning) as a model for Inclusive Practice that provides a framework to manage diversity to include all students. It explored the complexity that is implicit in the idea of inclusion especially when supporting students. Some practical tools and strategies were identified that benefit not only students with a disability, but all students in the long run. The workshop was targeted at all CIT staff, and participants: Gained an understanding of what is meant by inclusion and Universal Design for Learning Engaged in practical activities where consideration is given to how designing a learning environment that is inclusive of a more diverse student population. Used the UDL model to design an inclusive learning environment. Considered how to create an Inclusive campus Gained an insight of the work of CIT's Disability Support Service and their work on the use of reasonable accommodations in a more strategic and inclusive manner."

ARK is AHEAD’s online platform which provides practical resources and know-how to support a range of institutional staff to be more accessible in their roles. ARK helps support tertiary education organisations to consider a whole of institution approach to accessibility. It also helps tertiary institutions to meet their legal obligations and to boost accessibility compliance, providing a better learning and education experience for all.

The aim of 'AT Hive' is to guide you through various technologies that can help people with disabilities in many different ways. If you are a student or employee then you may require a technology to assist you to learn or work effectively. Technologies designed to support people with disabilities are called Assistive Technologies (AT) and can also be referred to as Inclusive Technologies too. AT sometimes refers to technologies that are specifically designed for people with disabilities, but increasingly, the term also describes accessibility features in mainstream products like Microsoft Office. Either way, AT can empower people with disabilities to reach to their fullest potential and give them an opportunity to work and learn on their own terms.

AHEAD is an independent non-profit organisation working to create inclusive environments in education and employment for people with disabilities. The main focus of our work is further education and training, higher education and graduate employment. AHEAD provides information to students and graduates with disabilities, teachers, guidance counsellors and parents on disability issues in education. We undertake national research relating to the inclusion of students with disabilities, contribute to national policy forums and provide professional development opportunities to develop the capacity of staff in FET and higher education to be more inclusive. AHEAD works with graduates and employers through the GET AHEAD Graduate Forum and the WAM Mentored Work Placement Programme. AHEAD is a partner of LINK, an action learning network of European organisations promoting the inclusion of students & graduates with disabilities in Higher Education.