(U14 - VSS) Panel - How UDL Fosters Engagement in Postsecondary Learners
Presenters: Maureen Wideman, Kari Kumar and Sandra Law
Abstract: In this session the panelists will each briefly discuss the UDL principle of engagement as it relates to the whole student – that is learning that happens formally and within the hidden curriculum. Research has determined that a student who is engaged in his or her learning can have a more productive and deep learning experience. Key factors that can impact engagement include motivation, authentic learning and assessment, and a curriculum that welcomes diversity through indigenization and internationalization. These factors can contribute a learning environment that is inviting, supportive and positive. After their brief presentations, the panelists will lead a discussion on their experiences with engaging students.
Audiences: Faculty and tutors, course and instructional designers, curriculum developers
Learning Objectives:
- Explore engagement using UDL strategies in the online and blended learning environments.
- Provide specific examples detailing how UDL engagement strategies can be applied in activity, course, curriculum, and program design.
- Discover ways in which to promote student persistence in courses and programs through application of techniques and strategies informed by UDL principles.
Biographies:
Maureen Wideman - Dr. Maureen Wideman is the Director of Teaching and Learning at UFV. Maureen has applied her knowledge and expertise in a number of areas including faculty development, curriculum design, learning with technology and inclusive learning environments. Previous to her arrival at UFV, Maureen had been working in educational development. She has taught post-secondary courses in traditional, hybrid and online formats, and has managed a service department supporting students with disabilities. Maureen has a PhD in Education from the University of Toronto in curriculum, teaching and learning, a master of science in education in online teaching and learning, a master of arts in Canadian studies and a bachelor’s degree in journalism.
Kari Kumar - Dr. Kari Kumar is an Academic Specialist with the Access & Aboriginal Focus Programs (AAFP). She completed a BSc and MSc in Microbiology from the University of Manitoba with specialization in molecular microbiology, a certificate in Adult Education from Centennial College (Toronto), and a PhD in Education from York University (Toronto) specializing in inclusive education, with special emphasis on e-learning. As Academic Specialist, Kari works closely with AAFP students and staff to support students in their studies, particularly as related to the sciences. Her research activities are positioned at the intersection of education, learning technologies, and critical disability studies, and include exploring how to deliver science education in an inclusive manner at the post-secondary level.
Sandra Law - Dr. Sandra Law obtained her PhD from the University of Calgary in 2011 in the field of Educational Technology. She has worked at Athabasca University for eight years and has been involved in a variety of online course design projects, educational development presentations and special projects (e.g. OERs, learning objects, accessibility to students with disabilities). Some of the special projects that she has been involved with include working with faculty and multimedia specialists to design creative commons licensed learning objects in the biological sciences and mathematics. She has been involved in design-based research in the fields of game-based learning and accessible online mathematics for students with disabilities. Her PhD research involved the development of an online game designed around authentic learning principles and focused on promoting scientific literacy in undergraduate science students.
Updated January 13, 2016 by Student & Academic Services
