Building a Community of Practice Across an Institution

Abstract

This case study highlights a number of approaches to building a UDL community of practice (CoP) within a higher education institution. The traditional method of building a CoP was followed to develop staff knowledge and awareness across the university on UDL principles. This was underpinned by the creation of membership of shared interests, working groups, developing policy and staff guidance, and providing training and development for staff. A second more personalized approach known as ‘Plus One' was also utilized to embed UDL principles to a new aerospace engineering module. The areas to focus on, known as pinch points, related to the historical expertise of the academic that are often repeated each term. In this case study, it was decided to focus on clear communication, choice, flexibility, accessibility, and inclusive assessment. The results showcase a positive appreciation from learners by having choice incorporated into their learning and assessment. It reduced the academic workload in terms of learner queries by having clearer consistent communication channels put in place.