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Abstract:
Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is a research-based educational framework developed almost 40 years ago by the Center for Applied Special Technology (CAST). While the framework has been utilized by adult educators to design inclusive learning experiences that support all learners (CAST, n.d.), the framework has yet to be explored as a design strategy for adult educators—who themselves are adult learners. The goal of this article is to identify and provide examples of how the framework can be used to increase the effectiveness of online professional development for adult educators. By infusing professional development with the three UDL principles: (1) multiple means of engagement (choice and options on how people interact with the learning content and material); (2) multiple means of representation (choice and options for how people consume learning content and material); and (3) multiple means of action and expression (choice and options for how people demonstrate what they have learned or can do) learning designers can improve the overall learning experience for the adult educators themselves and model UDL.