Edge Hill University<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is a framework which promotes inclusive education by providing multiple means of engagement, representation, and expression, supporting the diverse needs of all learners. In early 2024, the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) launched an innovative new pilot project with 44 schools across Ireland to introduce and build on existing good practice around the UDL framework. The pilot aims to improve and optimise learning, supporting teachers to plan for learner variability, including those with special educational needs. Edge Hill University in collaboration with University of College Cork were commissioned by the NCSE to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of the UDL Pilot and explore its impact on mainstream and special schools (primary and post-primary). <\/p>\n\n\n\n
This presentation will focus on both the design used to assess the outcomes of the UDL implementation, and the project management processes that support the successful delivery of this multi-phase, multi-work package evaluation. We will detail the processes we have followed as a research team to design and administer evaluation activities that support us in exploring the impact of the UDL framework, and to determine what has worked well and areas for improvement from a process perspective. We will also outline the project management approach and structure which included components not typical of an academic research project (for example, a Project Inception Document (PID) and a Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) to define and sequence deliverables). <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The aim is to discuss ideas and provoke thought on creative research designs and processes that address inequities and promote inclusive education.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n