Building Inclusive Pathways: Assistive Technology & Universal Design for Learning at WashU

Laura Dieckhaus, Disability Resources

This session explores how Washington University in St. Louis is advancing campus-wide inclusion through a Universal Design for Learning (UDL) framework and strategic integration of assistive technology. Participants will learn how Disability Resources, the Center for Teaching and Learning, and the University Libraries are collaborating to proactively remove learning barriers and create more accessible, student-centered environments.

The session highlights key tools like Equatio, for accessible STEM content, and SensusAccess, which empowers students and faculty to convert documents into a variety of accessible formats. It will also showcase the newly launched Library Accessibility webpage, a central hub for inclusive access to resources.

Participants will:

• Gain a foundational understanding of UDL principles in higher education
• Learn how assistive technologies are enhancing access and engagement for all learners
• Explore practical examples of campus-wide collaboration in action
• Discover how to integrate these tools and practices into their own courses, departments, or services
  

Participants will leave with actionable ideas to support inclusive learning and take steps toward building a more accessible WashU.