Empowering and inspiring you to support and develop learner success beyond the classroom.
Introducing the launch of the new Universal Design for Learner/ Student Support and Engagement (UDLSSE) Online Digital Badge. The UDLSSE course and badge are specifically created for further education and training (FET) and higher education staff who interact either directly or indirectly with students and learners beyond the reaches of the classroom setting. With the UDLSSE badge pilot running in 2023 and an open public roll out of the course scheduled for autumn 2024, this badge will serve to inspire staff to universally design their practices, regardless of their roles, so that all students and staff can engage with their work.
What: Free 10-week introductory course on Universal Design for staff working in student support and engagement.
Available to: This is a closed pilot testing of the UDLSSE badge available by invite only. This badge is for staff currently working in Higher Education or Further Education and Training in the Republic of Ireland. The badge is specifically designed for staff working in student support and engagement.
Timeline: The course is currently in the designing process. A closed national pilot will run from October-December 2023 with 100 selected FE and HE staff. After a thorough feedback and redesign process, the badge will launch to the public in the summer of 2024. Once in full effect, this badge will run concurrently with the UDL badge annually from October-December.
Background Information: With the success of the UDL badge primarily aimed a teaching professionals, UCD Access & Lifelong Learning are teaming up with AHEAD to jointly deliver the Digital Badge for Universal Design for Learner/Student Support and Engagement. This course, hosted by the National Forum for the Enhancement of Teaching & Learning, will provide participants with a strong practical know-how of Universal Design and how to apply it in their roles. It will impart practical knowledge and tips to empower student and support engagement staff working beyond the classroom, to make their contribution to the student experience more flexible and accessible to all.