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Universal Design for Learning
Master of Arts
Course Details
Course Code | SG_EUNIV_M09 |
---|---|
Level | 9 |
Duration | 2 years |
Credits | 90 |
Method of Delivery | Online |
Campus Locations | Sligo |
Mode of Delivery | Part Time |
Course Overview
The aim of this programme is to support educational personnel to develop a variety of teaching methods to lower any barriers to learning, by introducing more flexible methods of teaching, assessment, and service provision to cater for the diversity of learners in their classrooms. The programme carefully examines the neuro-educational research that UDL evidence in addressing how people learn. It will explore its implementation in a variety of contexts and critically examine it in practice success as support to inclusion and access.
Course Details
Year 1
Semester | Module Details | Credits | Mandatory / Elective |
---|---|---|---|
1 |
Understanding the UDL Framework: Inclusive Education – Beyond Threshold ConceptsThe aim of this module is to incorporate key components in relation to the evolution of inclusive educational practice, specifically Universal Design for Learning (UDL) which is presented as a teaching and learning framework for consideration. To frame this learning, the module curriculum casts a view on global and national conceptualisation comprising of attitudinal beliefs and the ways in which underrepresented groups or facets of diversity and education have evolved initially side by side and in the recent past as an integrated approach to learning through mediums of inclusive practices and policy. This evolution transcends through pedagogical theory, examining the neuro-educational science within UDL allowing for students to adapt critical and global thinking skills through discussion and debate of international inclusive educational perspectives. Through a UDL teaching and learning lens, educators will learn the value of human diversity and respect of varied talents and perspectives in regard to the education of a body of students. Learning Outcomes 1. Interpret theory that underpins diversity and variability in the context of educational history and socio-cultural evolution. 2. Identify how a rights perspective set out in the legal and policy framework, both international and domestic, aims to promote and ensureequitable opportunity and inclusion for people with disabilities. 3. Appraise and justify the impacts the modern technological driven classroom via a choice of accessible platforms and digital tools that engage with the principles of Universal Design for Learning and correlate its pedagogical relevance in relation to accessibility. 4. Correlate theoretical stances underlying neuro-educational research and portrayals of pedagogy in the context of the inclusive educational setting taking account of the synergistic relationship between all factors that account for how , what and why humans learn. 5. Justify established educational theories concerning equity and inclusion in pedagogy by examining UDL in practice, demonstrating practical skill, operationalising theory and knowledge. 6. Modify own curriculum and validate UDL as a teaching and learning framework that builds flexibility into the curriculum. 7. Enhance global thinking skills through discussion and debate of international inclusive educational perspectives. |
15 | Mandatory |
2 |
Implementation of the UDL Framework: Supporting Student LearningBuilding upon base knowledge from Understanding the UDL Framework module, learners will identify curriculum integration of inclusive educational needs, as well as developing inclusive cultures by means of implementing the evidence- based framework Universal Design for Learning (UDL). This module will examine the principles of UDL in regard to inclusive design and implementation into the curriculum, supporting learners from the start, including those with different abilities, needs, or backgrounds. Learners will r esearch, learn to plan, and implement the principles of UDL in a module by providing evidenced options for engagement, representation and action/expression' or for simplicity 'the why, what and how of learning' through careful consideration of flexible materials, classroom practices and assessment. Learning Outcomes 1. Investigate self-educational understanding and ability to identify approaches to ones own pedagogy and practice in relation to inclusive practices. 2. Analyse and interpret student feedback to assist the creation of a module UDL development plan. 3. Consider a viable accessible/ digital platform delivery and evidence an array of materials used for implementation. 4. Design a module plan by creating a blueprint of adaptations allowing for inclusive pedagogical improvements that build more flexibility, accessibility and choice into learning materials, delivery and assessment. 5. Implement a UDL module redesign to support student learning. 6. Construct an Inclusive Educators philosophy that exemplifies the value of human diversity in respect of varied talents and perspectives. |
15 | Mandatory |
Year |
Research Project UDLThe objective of the research thesis is to provide an independent and critical appraisal of an issue. The research project will allow the learner to consider how to embed UDL within learning and the impact of this. Learners will select, modify and apply research skills, to critically analyse, research independently and formulate responses to unpredictable, complex problems in educational and learning environments, in order to develop new knowledge, ideas, processes, and procedures. They will decide on a work plan, examine and define the issue(s), undertake a critical review of existing literature, decide the methodology and method appropriate to undertake the project, evaluate evidence-based conclusions and prepare and present their findings. The work will cumulate with the submission of a research thesis, where the learner will be required to present their project and partake in a viva voce examination. The research model advocated within the thesis learning experience uses the principles of practitioner enquiry, however, acknowledging that this may not always be possible for all students an alternative research approach can be decided within the student-supervisor relationship. Consequently, the type and style of the research project will be decided in consultation and collaboration with the student and their research supervisor. Learning Outcomes 1. Consider and debate the challenges for practitioner enquiry in practice. 2. Discuss and critically debatethe effectiveness of any research approach identified. 3. Critically examine literature and draw inferences from this body of knowledge. 4. Select and applya range of standard and specialised research or equivalent tools and techniques of enquiry to the research project. 5. Interpret, critique andsynthesisedatathat isstate of the art in arelevant educational area. 6. Carry out the research project in an ethical manner. 7. Produce a research project in a format appropriate to level 9 award. |
60 | Mandatory |
Recommended Study Hours per week
Dissertation Supervisors are subject matter experts in your area and work with a co-supervisor who has expertise in inclusive teaching practice. You will be paired with Supervisor(s) that will provide guidance on a weekly basis throughout your research project.
Examination and Assessment
On-Campus Attendance Requirement
Download a prospectus
Entry Requirements
Honours degree (Level 8), with evidence of a 2:2 or higher. Due to the specific nature of this programme, applicants are required to submit an expression of interest form which asks for a 500-word submission stating their knowledge and engagement with UDL or Recognition of Prior Learning related specifically to inclusive practice. For students progressing to the Masters in Universal Design for Learning, Successful completion of SG_EUNIV_S09 Postgraduate Certificate in Universal Design for Learning is a pre-requisite.
Fees
Total Fees EU: €7200
Internal (ATU) applicants do not need to apply for funding as the programme is free to ATU staff.
Further information on feesCareers
On successful completion of the Postgraduate Certificate/Master of Arts in UDL, graduates will possess the necessary knowledge and skills on the science of cognition and how to embrace individual learning differences. Based in cognitive neurosciences, UDL focuses on designing curricula with variability and removing barriers through offering flexible options and proactively designing capacity building learning experiences. While completing the programme participants will experience the UDL framework first hand as programme lead and guest lecturers model the principles and actively engage students in applying and evaluating UDL in their own practice. This will empower graduates to apply UDL into curriculum and the classroom in manageable ways and thus empower their own students to learn more effectively with choice.
Following completion of the programme graduates will have a deeper, more accurate understanding of student learning. They will have the knowledge and skills to provide their students flexibility in expression and flexibility in engagement which will serve as a platform to enhance skills, abilities, and motivations. Graduates will build on these skills to develop curriculum that is inclusive and caters to the diversity of the 21st century student.
From this programme, these graduates will carry forward attributes that will enrich any educational programme team based on their deep engagement with the incorporating the principles of UDL into their curriculum
Further Information
Who Should Apply?
On successful completion of the Master of Arts in UDL, graduates will possess the necessary knowledge and skills on the science of cognition and how to embrace individual learning differences. Based in cognitive neurosciences, UDL focuses on designing curricula with variability and removing barriers through offering flexible options and proactively designing capacity building learning experiences. While completing the programme participants will experience the UDL framework first hand as programme lead and guest lecturers model the principles and actively engage students in applying and evaluating UDL in their own practice. This will empower graduates to apply UDL into curriculum and the classroom in manageable ways and thus empower their own students to learn more effectively with choice.
Following completion of the programme graduates will have a deeper, more accurate understanding of student learning. They will have the knowledge and skills to provide their students flexibility in expression and flexibility in engagement which will serve as a platform to enhance skills, abilities, and motivations. Graduates will build on these skills to develop curriculum that is inclusive and caters to the diversity of the 21st century student.
Contact Information
Admissions Office
T: 353 (0) 71 91 55222
E: admissions.sligo@atu.ie
Social Sciences