Inclusive learning material

Inclusive learning material enhances a student’s sense of belonging to the learning community. It supports awareness of equality and diversity issues in the educational setting but also in a wider perspective in society and in the disciplinary fields.

Inclusive learning material may include some of the following aspects:

  • Verifies that the learning material is accessible to all kinds of students

  • Visually reflects diversity by including photos and illustrations of people from various cultural backgrounds, of different ages, genders, disabilities, etc.

  • Provides students opportunities to relate content to their own experiences by using various examples, case studies, different theories and perspectives.

  • Encourages sharing of diverse perspectives, interpretations and experiences.

  • Connects with students’ interests, aspirations and future identities.

  • Integrates themes of equality, diversity and cultural relativity.

  • Facilitates interactivity with and self-reflection on difference and so enhances student equality and diversity competence.

The UDL Guidelines: Universal Design for Learning Guidelines

  • The guidelines are divided into three distinctive categories as follows:
  1. Engagement (the WHY of learning)
  2. Representation (the WHAT of learning)
  3. Action & Expression (the HOW of learning).
  • In each category the individual should be provided multiple means of reaching the set objectives.
  • You can access the guidelines online at http://udlguidelines.cast.org/
  • The guidelines are explained by Center Director David Rose on the video below.

Viewing time 3:44 min

Sources: Higher Education Academy Scotland, 2017 and UDL: The UDL Guidelines