ADCET Universal Design for Learning (UDL) Symposium 2024

Cultivating Creativity, Connections & Confidence in the Australian Tertiary Education Sector

ADCET, in partnership with RMIT, invited participants to join them on June 12, 2024, at RMIT in Melbourne for an engaging day of learning, sharing, and exploring innovative UDL practices. Attendees immersed themselves in a dynamic symposium where like-minded educators, experts, and advocates came together to deepen their understanding of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles and strategies.

They became part of a community dedicated to creating inclusive and engaging learning environments for all. The event showcased practical techniques, frameworks, and best practices for designing inclusive learning experiences. Participants also discovered effective methods for measuring the impact of UDL implementation, including positive stories and their influence on student success. They explored how UDL principles could be applied beyond the traditional classroom setting to foster inclusive learning experiences and delved into strategies for designing assessments that align with UDL principles and support diverse learners. Discussions were held on applying the principles of UDL to foster a more inclusive tertiary education experience, and the intersection of artificial intelligence and UDL was investigated, exploring how emerging technologies could enhance inclusive learning environments.

The Symposium was held online or in person at RMIT, Melbourne.

Welcome from the Pro Vice-Chancellor - UTAS

James Brann - a middle aged man with reddish brown hair and glasses

On behalf of the University of Tasmania, it is my pleasure to welcome delegates to the Australian Disability Clearinghouse of Education and Training (ADCET) Universal Design for Learning (UDL) Symposium.

In a time when the Universities accord is actively setting an agenda to enhance access and participation for equity cohorts, the significance of this event cannot be overstated. It is gatherings like these that foster the exchange of innovative ideas and practices, ensuring we can break down barriers and create learning experiences that are accessible, engaging, and empowering for every student.

We are grateful to RMIT University for their invaluable partnership and support, as well as to the dedicated organising committee whose efforts have made this symposium possible. I would also like to thank Australian Disability Clearing House on Education and Training (ADCET) for their tireless work to improve the experience of our students, staff and communities.

Let this event continue to drive the agenda of accessibility and equity in tertiary education and serve as a catalyst to meaningful conversations and connections.

Dr James Brann (He/Him)
Pro Vice-Chancellor (Student Equity and Success)
University of Tasmania

Facilitator

Kate Anderson - a young woman, with long blonde hair, smiling and wearing glasses

Dr Kate Anderson is a Vice Chancellor's Senior Research Fellow at RMIT University, Melbourne. Her research explores how digital technologies, including educational technologies, can be made more useful, accessible, and inclusive for people with disability. Kate is a fierce advocate for authentic co-design and consumer consultation.

Keynote Speaker

Thomas Tobin - a smiling middle aged man with a mustache and goatee
Dr Thomas J. Tobin

The ADCET UDL Symposium 2024 is honoured to feature a keynote presentation by Dr. Thomas Tobin, a renowned expert in the field of Universal Design for Learning. Dr. Tobin's presentation, Scaling Up with Universal Design for Learning . . . and How to Get Colleagues to Join You will provide attendees with valuable insights and practical strategies when working across your organisation to develop inclusive and engaging learning environments.

Thomas has also kindly agreed to present the closing session, where you'll have a final chance to engage with Thomas, who will reflect on the day and share practical ideas to energise, empower, and embolden you to lower barriers for access and learning when you return to your everyday context. Bring your big take-aways, questions, and connections - we'll end our day with collaboration, support, and community!

In partnership with:

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