Registration now open! Please pre-register for in-person or virtual attendance.
December 2023 – 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
Progress: Registration is now open for the UDL Community of Practice launch, taking place on May 30, 2025, during National Accessibility Week. Download the full event flyer (PDF) or visit udlcopnl.ca for details on the schedule, speakers, and how to join us in person or online.
Project Coordinators:
- Sean Fardy, BEd, MEd, PhD Student (Education, Memorial University)
- Jordan Hollahan, BA, MA, PhD Student (Archaeology, Memorial University)
- Stephanie Evans, BSW Student (Social Work, Memorial University)
Collaborators:
- Nancy Reid, Executive Director, Coalition of Persons with Disabilities NL
- Trevor Freeborn, Project Manager, Coalition of Persons with Disabilities NL
- Lynsey Soper-Thistle, Field Education Coordinator, School of Social Work, Memorial University
About the Project:
In this project, a team of educators, students, and community members will design and launch a dynamic Universal Design for Learning Community of Practice (CoP) in Newfoundland and Labrador. By fostering a collaborative and knowledge-sharing environment, the CoP will provide members with opportunities to enhance their learning and practices, facilitate collaboration, and engage in meaningful interactions with people in their respective fields and the community. The CoP will enhance pedagogy and increase accessibility in the province by promoting inclusion and best practices and helping members transform their approaches to education. To learn more about UDL and CoPs, please download our primer below!
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!
If you are passionate about fostering inclusive and accessible educational experiences or interested in learning more about the Universal Design for Learning Community of Practice in Newfoundland and Labrador, please contact Dr. Ami Goulden (agoulden@mun.ca) or Sean Fardy (sf6218@mun.ca), or visit udlcopnl.ca!