Putting It All Together

Students with disabilities represent just one aspect of the diversity that exists in colleges and universities today. The postsecondary setting has also seen an increase in the numbers of students for whom English is a second language and in non-traditional students. Along with the diversity in background, age, and the differences that disabilities present, students also bring different learning styles to the classroom.

Educators have long considered ways to more effectively teach this diverse student population. A concept that has recently emerged and that holds promise as a framework for considering this diversity, is the concept of Universal Design. This section begins with an introduction to the concept, principles, and application of Universal Design. Also included here are overviews of learning styles and Web accessibility.