Saturday 29th May 2021, eKitabu team trained 21 teachers in Nairobi from different schools in mainstream and special needs in Kenya to address the gap in accessing content by applying the three Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles to advance inclusive learning. eKitabu developed a UDL manual that was used as the main learning material during the training. Post training, the teachers will continue to receive support in implementing the lessons learnt. The three UDL principles included:

• The use of multiple means of engagement to recruit and sustain learners interest
• The use of multiple means of representation to convey knowledge in accessible forms
• The use of multiple means of action and expression to help learners internalize and actualize their learning

The objectives of the training

• Building confidence of teachers to integrate accessible digital content in their lessons
• Guide teachers on how to create lesson plans that incorporate UDL principles
• Work with the teachers to identify ways of integrating digital literacy in the their classroom timetable

“UDL being a way to connect every student to the learning experience regardless of their ability, allows teachers to make decisions based on emotion and motivation. It guides the design of learning environments that are safe, relevant and support students' motivation and resilience.” Pauline Okach, Nyasare Primary School teacher, Migori County.“I’m glad that the teachers turned up for the training in large numbers. The UDL training is a tool to help them connect every student to the learning experience by applying the three UDL principles in the classroom. We look forward to reaching out to many more teachers around the country.” Leah Nguata, Research and Training Manager, eKitabu.For more informationeKitabu plans for more training sessions in the coming months and you can find out more by contacting support@ekitabu.comAbout Universal Design for Learning (UDL)UDL is a theoretical framework that focuses on assisting teachers in planning to meet students’ diverse needs. It guides the development of flexible learning environments and learning spaces that can accommodate individual learning differences. According to learning styles theories, students have diverse needs and learning preferences. Nevertheless, the general curriculum treats them as a homogenous group. UDL, thus utilizes multiple approaches to engage learners in the learning process. Through the use of hands-on examples using the KaiOS, DLP, and laptop devices, eKitabu trained the teachers on how to apply the three Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles to advance inclusive learning.The UDL teacher training program is part of the Africa Publishing Innovation Fund (APIF) project, a four-year, USD 800,000 fund provided by Dubai Cares, a UAE-based global philanthropic organization, and administered by the IPA. The decision was to incentivize learning innovations to help African students pursue their education following the confinement measures imposed worldwide in response to the Covid-19 pandemic. Around 190 countries had to close schools and universities, affecting more than 1.5 billion school-aged children – around 90% of the world’s student population.