Q1 The institution I selected to examine that is currently applying UDL in their setting was The Ohio State University. I selected this University to review as OSU is practically in my backyard, and I was excited to see a local University considering UDL. OSU demonstrates some strengths when it comes to their program and it’s consideration of UDL. One such strength is that the university hosts a blog dedicated to UDL and accessibility. This blog serves as a vessel for educators and students to learn more about UDL, tools to support UDL, and how to intertwine UDL practices into coursework. OSU also had a page that was dedicated to how professors (and perhaps students studying special education and UDL) could use to guide their thinking in respect to incorporating UDL. The information provided includes a section on a guide to preparation which includes questions to guide design and links to resources. There was also a section devoted to assessment, and how UDL can be considered in respect to assessing at the collegiate level. Overall, OSU appears to provide a lot of resources and guidance on how to ensure that UDL is integrated into the coursework offered at the university.
Q2 As discussed by professors Dr. Kester, Dr. Smith, and Ms. Kallas, certain frameworks appear to be important for promoting UDL systems change. Dr. Smith suggests that by utilizing the actual UDL framework to promote systems change, that very structure allows for the best opportunity to promote change. The UDL framework allows for flexibility, which is helpful when promoting systems change. Ms. Kallas highlighted in her work that providing opportunities for professional development and collaboration during the systems change process is very beneficial. Dr. Kester suggests that due to the nature of UDL, it is best to thoughtfully engage a variety of stakeholders. By including and engaging with a variety of stakeholders, it provides meaningful opportunities for the team to learn from one another, further propelling the success of promoting UDL systems change.
O'Connell UDL Blog- SPED 6210 
Thanks for sharing Ohio States UDL resources! It was really interesting to compare and see what different universities were offering in terms of UDL supports. I looked at Towson University and their UDL- Professional Network. I think it would be beneficial for Towson to incorporate a blog into their resources as it promotes direct engagement and collaboration across professors and students.
LikeLike