Action Zone 1

The Action Zone focuses on leadership, strategy, policy, and institutional approaches that support the adoption of Universal Design. Sessions explore governance models, strategic planning, and sector-wide initiatives that move Universal Design from commitment to action. 

The Action Zone is located in Wicklow Hall 2.

12:25-12:40: Barriers and Bridges: Exploring the challenges experienced by higher education staff to engage with professional learning on Universal Design

12:25-12:40

Barriers and Bridges: Exploring the challenges experienced by higher education staff to engage with professional learning on Universal Design

This paper presents interim analysis from an ongoing research study exploring how best to support higher education staff to embed Universal Design in their practice.  Barriers to engaging with professional learning and potential solutions are discussed. The findings also offer evidence of the impact of professional learning on practice.

Presentation slides

12:40-12:55: Embedding UDL in Further Education: to promote a strengths-based model of inclusive practice

12:40-12:55:

Embedding UDL in Further Education: to promote a strengths-based model of inclusive practice

This presentation showcases a leadership-led initiative embedding Universal Design for Learning in Further Education through professional development and media-based dissemination. By equipping educators with inclusive strategies and amplifying practice through digital storytelling, the project advances institutional commitment across all FE colleges in NI to UDL and fosters sustainable, cross-college transformation in Northern Ireland. 

Presentation slides

12:55-13:10: i-TeachLab: Integrating Universal Design for Learning Across Teaching, Assessment and Space

12:55-13:10

i-TeachLab: Integrating Universal Design for Learning Across Teaching, Assessment and Space

The i-TeachLab project places a dual lens on the learning environment: simultaneously, it explores how UDL principles can be embedded in teaching and assessment and how spatial literacy and agency can be developed by teachers. Through the UpLift programme, InScape self-scan, and Teacher’s Rider workshop, the project advances inclusive practice across digital and physical learning environments. 

Presentation slides

Impact Zone 1

The Impact Zone centres on research, evaluation, and evidence-informed practice. Sessions examine the impact of Universal Design initiatives, exploring outcomes for learners and staff and how evidence can inform continuous improvement. Impact

The Impact Zone is located in Ecosem.

12:25-12:40: Pathways to Inclusive Practice Programme: The University of Cambridge

12:25-12:40

Pathways to Inclusive Practice Programme

The University of Cambridge’s Pathways to Inclusive Practice programme is designed to embed inclusive education across disciplines, through pilot projects informed by Universal Design principles. This presentation outlines the programme’s objectives: to explore how local innovation, partnership-working and co-creation can drive sustainable reform and achieve impactful inclusive change.

Presentation slides

12:40-12:55: Co-creating Pathways to Employment

12:40-12:55

Co-creating Pathways to Employment

Explore how NLN and Mr. Price co-created inclusive employment routes with disabled students using a UD lens. This session offers practical strategies for educators and employers to remove barriers, foster authentic partnerships, and support real job outcomes enabling disabled students to thrive in education and the workplace. 

Presentation slides

12:55-13:10: Lightning Block

Lightning Block:

12:55- 13:05   

Lights, Camera, Co-Create! Students as Digital Storytellers in NLN

Students across the National Learning Network (NLN) are becoming digital storytellers, co-creating videos that share their experiences, ideas, and creativity. In this lightning talk, NLN students and NLN’s Senior Development Officer show how inclusive co-creation transforms confidence, connection, and digital skills, bringing Universal Design to life through shared storytelling. 

13:05-13:15

Print, Create, Include: 3D Design and Innovation in NLN (Rehab Group, NLN) [Lightning Talk, 6 min]

Students across the National Learning Network (NLN) are using 3D printing to make learning more engaging and inclusive. From creating Braille signs to designing classroom supports, students are exploring how 3D design can solve everyday challenges and make their centres more accessible for everyone. 

Innovation Zone 1

The Innovation Zone highlights emerging ideas, technologies, and creative approaches to Universal Design. This zone offers space for experimentation, inspiration, and new ways of thinking. 

The Innovation Zone located in breakout room 2.

12:25-13:10: Inclusive by Design: Modernising QQI Assessment Instrument Specifications through a Universal Design Lens

12:25-13:10

Inclusive by Design: Modernising QQI Assessment Instrument Specifications through a Universal Design Lens

This interactive workshop guides participants through the redesign of QQI Assessment Instrument Specifications using Universal Design principles. Through discussion and hands-on activities, attendees will explore practical strategies for creating inclusive, flexible, and authentic assessments, and leave with actionable ideas to apply Universal Design in their own assessment contexts.