This workshop explores the intersection of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and Generative AI, showcasing how AI-driven tools can support the creation of inclusive and flexible learning environments. Participants will gain practical insights into leveraging generative AI to enhance UDL principles, ensuring that the educational environment fosters learning for all.

Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is an educational framework that aims to accommodate the diverse needs of all learners by providing multiple means of representation, action and expression, and engagement. In today's rapidly evolving educational landscape, integrating innovative technologies such as Generative AI can enhance the implementation of UDL principles. This workshop will explore how generative AI can be used to support educational practices to include more inclusive, flexible, and effective learning environments (CAST, 2024). Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is based on the understanding that learners are highly variable and that no single method of teaching works for all students. UDL promotes the design of educational experiences that are flexible and customizable to accommodate different learning styles and abilities. The three primary principles of UDL are: Multiple Means of Representation: Presenting information in various ways to cater to different sensory and cognitive preferences. Multiple Means of Action and Expression: Allowing students to demonstrate their knowledge in diverse ways. Multiple Means of Engagement: Providing various options to engage and motivate students. Generative AI refers to a subset of artificial intelligence that can generate new content, such as text, images, and audio, based on the data it has been trained on. In the context of education, generative AI can create personalized learning materials, provide instant feedback, and adapt learning experiences to individual student needs (McDermott, B, 2024). UDL Principles and AI Integration 1. Multiple Means of Representation Generative AI can enhance representation by creating diverse and adaptive content formats. For example: Text-to-Speech and Speech-to-Text: AI can convert written content into spoken words and vice versa, making materials accessible to students with visual impairments or reading difficulties. Multimedia Content Creation: AI can generate visual aids, infographics, and interactive simulations that cater to visual and kinesthetic learners. Language Translation: AI-powered translation tools can present information in multiple languages, supporting students who are non-native speakers. 2. Multiple Means of Action and Expression AI can support diverse methods for students to express their understanding and skills: Adaptive Assessments: AI can create and modify assessments in real-time, providing alternative question formats and adjusting difficulty based on student performance. Interactive Platforms: AI-driven platforms can offer students various ways to complete assignments, such as through written reports, video presentations, or digital art. Feedback and Guidance: AI can provide personalized feedback and suggest resources or strategies to improve student performance. 3. Multiple Means of Engagement Generative AI can enhance engagement by personalizing learning experiences and making them more interactive: Personalized Learning Paths: AI can analyze student data to create customized learning plans that align with individual interests and strengths. Gamification: AI can incorporate game-like elements into learning activities to increase motivation and participation. Virtual Tutors: AI-powered chatbots and virtual tutors can provide instant support and answer questions, helping to maintain student engagement and interest. This workshop will provide participants with an understanding of how generative AI can be applied to the UDL principles to enhance the educational experience for learners. By exploring practical applications, engaging with AI tools, and developing integration strategies, attendees will be equipped to create more inclusive and adaptable learning environments. The session will conclude with a Q&A segment, allowing participants to discuss their experiences, ask questions, and share insights. By embracing generative AI, educators can support their teaching practices with high-quality, personalized learning experiences. This workshop aims to inspire and empower educators to leverage AI's potential, ultimately enhancing educational equity and effectiveness. Objectives: Participants will: Discuss the principles of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and how they can be supported by Generative AI. Interact with Generative AI to create materials that the principles of UDL. Apply strategies for integrating Generative AI into educational practices to support UDL. Session Engagement: In this workshop, participants will engage in a hands-on activity designed to explore AI tools that support UDL principles. Sessions Start Info The activity focuses on using AI-powered tools to create multimedia educational content and create adaptive assessments. Participants will be divided into small groups to access various AI content-creation tools. The session begins with a brief introduction to the activity and a demonstration of converting a text-based lesson into a multimedia format. During the group work phase, each group will select a short text-based lesson and use an AI-powered tool to create visual aids or infographics highlighting key points. They will then use an AI powered tool, such as Synthesia, to produce a short video summary with AI-generated avatars and voiceovers. Participants will generate adaptive assessments by using tools like Google Forms with Formative and Quizlet with AI suggestions. Participants will be encouraged to make connections to Canvas and its ability to allow for adaptive assessments. This activity will conclude with each group presenting their multimedia content and adaptive assessments to the workshop and discussing how different formats cater to various learning preferences and needs. Takeaways By the end of the activity, participants will have hands-on experience with AI tools that enhance UDL principles, empowering them to create more inclusive and engaging learning environments. Knowledge of various AI tools. One activity that can be implemented in their learning environment. Resources to strengthen their use of UDL principles. References: CAST. (2024). The udl guidelines. https://udlguidelines.cast.org/ McDermott, B., (2024). AI as an accessibility tool: Using generative ai to support universal design for learning. Academic Integrity in the Age of Artificial Intelligence.