Project Development: December 2023 – June 2025
Community of Practice: May 2025 – Present
Project Title: Designing and Cultivating a Community-Informed Universal Design for Learning (UDL) Community of Practice in Newfoundland and Labrador
Funding: Public Engagement Accelerator Fund, Memorial University
About the Project:
The Universal Design for Learning Community of Practice in Newfoundland and Labrador brings together educators, students, service providers, community members, and advocates who share an interest in creating more accessible and inclusive learning environments. Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is an educational framework that encourages educators to anticipate barriers to learning and provide flexible opportunities for engagement, representation, and action and expression. Rather than expecting learners to adapt to rigid educational environments, UDL invites us to consider how teaching and learning can be designed to better support the diversity of learners from the outset.
Through collaboration, knowledge sharing, and opportunities to learn from lived experience, the Community of Practice supports the application of UDL across educational settings, including K–12 schools, post-secondary education, field education, and community-based learning.
Project Development and Launch
Our team conducted a province-wide needs assessment, identified organizations working in education and accessibility, and engaged educators, students, and community members in conversations about their experiences, interests, and priorities. These early activities highlighted the importance of practical resources, peer learning, and opportunities to connect with others who share a commitment to inclusive education.
The UDL Community of Practice officially launched on May 30, 2025, during National Accessibility Week. More than 150 participants joined the hybrid event from Newfoundland and Labrador, across Canada, and internationally. The launch included presentations and discussions exploring how UDL can support accessibility, equity, and belonging across educational and community settings.
An Ongoing Community of Practice
Since its launch, the Community of Practice has continued to grow, bringing together people from different disciplines, educational settings, and communities. Through regular workshops, presentations, and collaborative discussions, members have explored topics such as accessible teaching materials, student perspectives, neurodiversity, learner agency, and approaches to implementing UDL in practice.
The Community of Practice also provides opportunities for members to share their own experiences, research, resources, and promising practices. We recognize that inclusive education is ongoing work and that meaningful change happens when we learn with and from one another.
Mission Statement:
Our mission is to increase inclusive learning environments for students in Newfoundland and Labrador by promoting the implementation of universal design for learning principles and guidelines in educational settings. Through collaboration and knowledge-sharing opportunities, we empower our members to lead pedagogical innovation and create accessible learning environments that recognize the diverse needs of all learners, fostering growth and academic success.
Vision Statement:
Our vision is to grow and sustain a vibrant community of practice (CoP) consisting of educators, students, community members, and stakeholders united by a shared commitment to advancing universal design for learning (UDL) in Newfoundland and Labrador. Our CoP is a dynamic hub where members engage in transformative learning experiences, share valuable insights, and co-create innovative solutions to advance UDL implementation throughout the province. Guided by our shared vision, we aspire to take the lead in fostering an educational landscape that is inclusive and accessible, empowering every learner to realize their full potential.
Get Involved!
The UDL Community of Practice welcomes educators, students, community members, and anyone interested in advancing accessible and inclusive learning. Although rooted in Newfoundland and Labrador, participation is open to individuals and organizations beyond the province. Visit www.udlcopnl.ca to explore resources, learn about upcoming events, and get involved.