Is Your Learning Really Designed for Everyone? Discover UDL.

Let’s be honest: most workplace training is designed for the average learner. The trouble is, it’s quite difficult to agree what the average learner actually is.

Some learn best by reading. Others by watching. Some thrive in group settings. Others need quiet reflection. And some learners face barriers, both visible and invisible, that generic training simply doesn’t account for.

Enter Universal Design for Learning (UDL). In some ways, it’s more of a mindset than a model. One that asks: how can we design learning that works for more people, more of the time?

What Is Universal Design for Learning (UDL)?

UDL is a research-based framework that guides the development of flexible, inclusive learning environments. Originating from the Centre for Applied Special Technology (CAST), UDL is built on the idea that variability is the norm rather than the exception.

At its heart are three guiding principles:

• Multiple means of engagement – the ‘why’ of learning

• Multiple means of representation – the ‘what’ of learning

• Multiple means of action and expression – the ‘how’ of learning

In simple terms? Give learners choices in how they engage, understand, and demonstrate what they’ve learned.

This isn’t about dumbing things down. It’s about opening things up.

Why This Matters: Because One Size Fits None

In a diverse workforce, rigid training equals missed opportunity.

Here’s what inclusive design delivers:

• Better engagement – Learners feel seen, supported, and valued.

• Improved performance – People can learn in the way that suits them best.

• Higher ROI – Training reaches more people more effectively, with less friction.

• Accessibility compliance – You meet standards like WCAG and avoid legal headaches.

• Inclusive culture – You show your organisation is serious about equity.

It’s also just the right thing to do. Because learning should be for everyone, not just the neurotypical, tech-savvy, time-rich few.

How to Apply UDL in Corporate Learning

You don’t have to rebuild your entire training programme. UDL is about designing with flexibility in mind, from the start.

Here’s how to bring it into your learning strategy:

1.     Multiple Means of Engagement (The Why)

Offer different ways to connect emotionally and stay motivated:

·        Let learners choose paths or formats (e.g. video vs. text).

·        Include gamified elements or real-world scenarios.

·        Provide clear goals and relevance to job roles.

2.     Multiple Means of Representation (The What)

Deliver content in varied, accessible ways:

·        Use visuals, audio, and text alternatives.

·        Add closed captions and transcripts.

·        Break content into chunks with summaries and signposts.

3.     Multiple Means of Action and Expression (The How)

Allow learners to show what they know in different ways:

·        Include interactive tasks, verbal reflections, quizzes or creative outputs.

·        Offer self-paced options alongside real-time learning.

·        Provide assistive tech compatibility (e.g. screen readers, keyboard navigation).

How Popcorn Designs with UDL in Mind

At Popcorn Learning Agency, we believe learning should be simple, beautiful and accessible to all.

That’s why our digital learning solutions are built with UDL principles at their core. Here’s what that looks like in action:

• Instructional design services that plan for learner variability from the ground up.

• Animated and filmed training videos with built-in accessibility (captions and transcripts).

• Interactive eLearning that’s flexible, responsive, and WCAG-compliant.

• Multiple interaction types so learners can engage, reflect, and perform in different ways.

• Impact evaluation that measures inclusive reach and behavioural change as well as attendance.

  
  

We also offer support in training needs analysis, learning content development, and blended learning solutions, all shaped by the UDL ethos: no one left behind.

Final Thoughts: Inclusive by Design, Not by Accident

UDL isn’t about making things “easier.” It’s about making them possible. For more people. More of the time.

Because when you design learning for the edges, everyone benefits.

Want to future-proof your learning strategy with UDL? Popcorn can help you build inclusive, accessible, and effective learning that works for everyone. Let’s talk, or follow us on LinkedIn for more of Popcorn’s Next Top (Learning) Model.