Addressing current and future challenges in EAL writing with Universal Design for Learning

Abstract

Writing is an essential literacy skill that is crucial to meeting various social demands. It is also extremely difficult to master, especially for learners of an additional language who face significant barriers to learning. Universal Design for Learning (UDL), is an instructional framework promoted as an effective means of removing such barriers. The basis of UDL is that learning barriers are best addressed through curricula and lessons that provide multiple means of engagement, representation, and action and expression. This study explores the application of UDL in an English as an Additional Language (EAL) writing course at a Japanese university. The UDL guidelines were used in the design and implementation of goals, instruction, learning tasks, and assessments. Learners’ perceptions of the UDL-based instruction were investigated using a questionnaire survey.