Top 5 Universal Design for Learning (UDL) Strategy Series Overview

The Top 5 UDL Strategy series began in August 2022 as a series of workshops aimed at helping faculty create more universally designed content for their students.  The initial workshops focused on commonly developed content, such as syllabi and visual materials.  Over time, additional workshops were added to address evolving needs, covering topics like teaching in-person classes and supporting non-apparent disabilities. Faculty participation in these workshops demonstrated a strong commitment to Universal Design for Learning goals, inclusive design, excellence in pedagogy, and the University’s goals.

Faculty who attended five workshops in the series earned a badge.  In the first two years, 8 faculty members obtained the badge and another 11 faculty completed three or more workshops. Overall, the series served 150 faculty members.    

In Spring 2024, the series received Provost Endorsement.  The Provost Endorsement Program at Penn State sets a standard for professional development with specific learning outcomes and a research-based curriculum (Provost Endorsement Program, 2024).  This endorsement recognizes the series as high-quality professional development supporting core faculty development domains.  For more information, visit the Provost Endorsement Initiative website. 

Upon completing the program, faculty receive a badge from the Vice Provost for Faculty Affairs (VPFA) and their completion is documented on their Activity Insights in the Learning Resource Network (LRN).     

Provost Endorsement Program Description

The Top 5 UDL Strategy Series is a Provost Endorsed workshop series that helps faculty design course materials and implement instructional strategies to proactively reduce barriers for all learners. The strategies align with sound pedagogy and the Universal Design for Learning framework, particularly the multiple means of representation and action and expression principles. Equipped with these tools, faculty can create inclusive learning environments. 

Program Requirements

To earn the Top 5 UDL Provost Endorsement, faculty must:   

• Complete five (5) Top 5 UDL workshops: 3 core and 2 elective 
• Apply the strategies to their pedagogy 
• Write a 1-to-3-page reflection on changes made to their practice 
• Attend 1 Cross Campus UDL Teaching Circle session  

Detailed requirements and registration information are available on the Top 5 UDL Provost Endorsement website.   Faculty can still register for individual workshops without committing to the endorsement program.