Designing for Inclusion in Learning

Creating an interactive learning resource requires removing barriers rather than expecting learners to overcome them. My experience as a software engineering student and my co-op at INSPIRE UVic, where I helped develop a web platform for neurodivergent students, reinforced the importance of building flexibility and accessibility into design from the start.

A well-designed learning resource should provide multiple ways to engage with content. Some learners prefer text-based materials, while others benefit from visual aids, interactive exercises, or audio explanations. During my work at INSPIRE UVic, we built customizable study tools that allowed students to adjust how they consumed information, making the experience more inclusive. Applying this idea to learning design means offering diverse content formats and allowing learners to control their experience, such as adjusting font size, contrast, or playback speed.

Scaffolding is also crucial. Just as my INSPIRE project included progress tracking and task breakdowns, learning activities should gradually increase in complexity while providing necessary supports. Tools like guided exercises, real-time feedback, and multiple submission options can help students engage without feeling overwhelmed.

If students had to shift to remote learning, the resource should support asynchronous engagement through recorded lessons, structured readings, and discussion forums. Well-organized content and clear navigation help reduce cognitive load, making it easier for students to stay on track even in uncertain situations.

A common challenge is rigid assessment methods. Offering multiple ways to demonstrate knowledge, such as coding exercises, presentations, or project-based tasks, ensures that different learning styles are accommodated. Breaking content into smaller, digestible sections also prevents information overload.

Inclusive design benefits everyone. Just as curb cuts were initially designed for wheelchair users but now help cyclists and parents with strollers, accessible learning resources improve education for all students. By removing barriers instead of just accommodating them, we create a learning environment where everyone can engage, succeed, and feel included.