Universal design for learning (UDL) is an evidence-based framework that improves and optimizes teaching and learning for all people. UDL recognizes the diversity of student learners and leverages how humans learn to improve and optimize teaching and learning.

In their 2023 TAA Conference session, “For an Equitable Textbook, Universal Design for Learning is a Must,” Laura Frost, Professor of Chemistry and Associate Dean at Florida Gulf Coast University; and Shawn Nordell, Associate Director of Graduate Career Services at the University of Arizona, provide an overview of the UDL framework, some examples of how authors can work UDL principles into their textbook writing, and discuss among the participants how this framework can be further used to enhance the equitability and accessibility of their textbooks.

Laura Frost is Professor of Chemistry and Associate Dean at Florida Gulf Coast University. She is co-author of an introductory chemistry textbook in fourth edition. She has a strong background in K-20 STEM Education focusing on STEM pedagogy that includes the science of learning for effective and inclusive classroom instruction. She currently serves on the TAA Council and chairs the TAA Committee on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.

Shawn Nordell is the Associate Director of Graduate Career Services at the University of Arizona. Her textbook on Animal Behavior is currently in its 3rd edition and the 1st edition was awarded TAA Most Promising New Textbook. She has extensive background in pedagogy working in teaching centers at Brown University and Washington University in St. Louis. She is currently a member of the TAA Committee on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.

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