Name
Making Learning Accessible for All: The Use of Universal Design for Learning in a Large Enrollment Entomology Course
Date & Time
Wednesday, June 24, 2026, 11:00 AM - 11:15 AM
Austin K. Jones
Description

Effectively engaging learners across a broad spectrum of learning preferences, study habits, skill sets, and accommodation needs is challenging, particularly in large-enrollment courses. One way to meet this challenge is to prepare and deliver course content thoughtfully curated using principles of Universal Design for Learning (UDL). UDL assumes learner differences and provides a framework for instructors to consider ways to offer students multiple pathways to engage, receive information, and express learning. Elements of UDL not only support more learners but also reduce instructor workload by lowering the need for reactive, student specific teaching practices. The purpose of this presentation is to describe how concepts of UDL have been incorporated into a face-to-face, 175-seat, introductory-level entomology lecture course. In this course, elements of UDL have been integrated into construction and delivery of presentations, assignments, and assessments, as well as classroom technologies. Presentation-related elements of UDL include consideration of the use of text, color, animation, and images in visual aid construction, as well as pacing and accessibility of the presentation delivery. Flexible presentation includes use of multiple forms of media and simulations across course concepts.  Additionally, assignments are based on specific learning goals with flexible routes for students to achieve those goals. This allows the instructor to assess individual student strengths and bolster engagement, connection, and confidence. Assessments such as exams and quizzes are constructed and delivered in open, accessible formats, while maintaining rigor, accuracy, and security against academic dishonesty. Examples of UDL technology use in the classroom include student polling and video conferencing software for attendance tracking, quizzes, and meeting accommodations. Attendees will increase their familiarity with the concepts of Universal Design for Learning as well as real-world examples of UDL that can be incorporated into coursework of any discipline.

Location Name
Caviness Conference Room
Full Address
The Mill at Mississippi State University
600 Russell Street
Starkville, MS 39759
United States
Session Type
Oral Presentation
Presentation Topic(s)
Practice of Teaching
Presentation Track(s)
Morning
Schedule Block
Block 3
Authors

Austin K. Jones, University of Arkansas Suzanne Kucharczyk, University of Arkansas Christopher M. Estepp, University of Arkansas