Neurodiversity & Universal Design for Learning (UDL) Badge

This professional development badge, originally offered only to staff, is now open to faculty as well. It is a collaborative initiative between the Learning Effectiveness Program (LEP) in the Division of Student Affairs and Inclusive Excellence and the Office of Teaching and Learning (OTL). 

Participants engage in the Neurodiversity Institute (NDI) and complete a series of reflective and applied assignments designed to foster inclusive practices. The badge recognizes individuals who have demonstrated a commitment to supporting neurodivergent students and implementing Universal Design for Learning (UDL) strategies in their work. 

campus in spring

Learning Outcomes

By earning this badge, participants will be able to: 

Explain the terms Neurodiversity, Universal Design for Learning, and Accessibility to colleagues.   Apply UDL principles and design responsive structures to support and collaborate with students.  Advocate for student needs regarding neurodiversity within their departments. 

Earning Criteria for Faculty

To earn the badge, faculty must: 

  1. Participate in the 2-day Neurodiversity Institute for Faculty 

  2. Complete a deliverables assignment during the academic term following the NDI and submit it at the beginning of the subsequent term. 

      -   If attending the August NDI, the assignment is completed during the fall term and submitted at the start of winter term.  

      -   If attending the December NDI, the assignment is completed during the winter term and submitted at the start of spring term. 

NOTE: All badge requirements must be completed within the academic year in which the faculty member participated in the NDI. 

 

The deliverables assignment includes: 

  1. Reflective Growth: A reflection on how they have continued to research and learn (for a minimum of 2 hours) about neurodiversity, UDL, and accessibility. 

  2. Course Development: A plan for applying their learning in the classroom, including how they will implement UDL principles and make their efforts transparent and public. 

  3. Engage Your Department: A reflection on how they have become an agent of change within their department by facilitating an activity to engage and motivate colleagues around accessibility and inclusive practices. 

This badge supports DU’s mission to create a more equitable and accessible campus environment by equipping faculty and staff with the tools to better serve all students. 

Contact

If you have any questions or comments about the Neurodiversity & Universal Design for Learning Badge, please contact Jasmine Yap, Director of Inclusive Teaching Practices, Jasmine.Yap@du.edu, for more information.