Universal design for Learning
Universal design for learning is a framework that encourages teachers to put strategies in place for students before they start to struggle. Students all learn in different ways and this technique allows for students to be successful the first time around. As a student myself it can be discouraging when a learning style doesn’t work for me. The three guiding principles for this framework are. Multiple means of representation, Multiple means of action and expression, and Multiple means of engagement. These are the “what” “why” and “how” of learning.
In one of my first semesters here at UVIC, I took a class, and the entire grading portion for the class was four tests. Test-taking is not my strong suit when it comes to ways of learning, and although I did fine on the tests, the professor gave the class the option to do an assignment instead of a final test. This falls into the category of “Multiple means of engagement” Instead of a test the class was given a different option that you could choose to do. I found this to be helpful and I felt more confident in my final assignment when I handed it in.
It can be difficult for university professors to accommodate all types of learning styles, especially with the large classroom sizes. Ultimately, when students arrive at university, they must determine which learning style best suits them and should advocate for themselves to receive the support they need. UVIC has many resources that students and benefit from and can help student’s be successful in their education journey.
Below, I have attached a link to Student Services, CAL, and Wellness/Counseling. These are all resources at UVIC that help students plan and organize throughout their semesters. For example, with CAL, you are able to create an educational plan that best suits your style of learning.
https://www.uvic.ca/accessible-learning/instructors/exam-centre/index.php
https://www.uvic.ca/students/health-wellness/counselling/index.php
Synchronous and Asynchronous Learning
Synchronous and Asynchronous learning have always been an interesting topic for me. When I was in high-school I struggled with online courses and was unsuccessful but as I got into university I was forced into adapting to it. I started university around the same time COVID happened and so all my courses naturally went online. I was concerned at the start but after a while I started to enjoy asynchronous learning and every semester I try and take one online course. It was a learning style that I had to adopt into my education but it has been beneficial. Having a mix of both online and in person classes have added a level of diversity to my learning strategies and I have found ways to learn better through that.
In 2024 I travelled Europe for three months was still enrolled at UVIC and maintained my grades. The asynchronous style was easy to adopt and I was still able to be successful in my studies while online. School is school and wether it is online or in person you have to carve out time in your day dedicated to the class, and thats what helped me when it came to online class
Interaction and Presence
It can be hard to foster relationships in an online setting, but I have found ways to do so. I have noticed many online classes require group work, and I think this is a great way to stay connected and be held accountable. It can be hard to meet up with group members especially with navigating everyones busy schedules but if you have a group with willing members it is all the much easier. Open communication in an online setting is the most important part of success, asking questions when you are confused and taking advantage of the professors office hours even if it is just to have a quick conversation it gives the chance for you as the student and the professor to create a relationship.
