Pre-Conference Workshops
Two workshops on March 17, 2027, the day before Spring Forward 2027 begins, presented by CAST as part of UDL-Con California. Each is $250, runs 10am-3pm, and can be attended on its own. No conference pass required.
Accessibility in Action: Turning the What, Why, & How of Accessibility into Practice
When: March 17, 2027 · 10am-3pm
Price: $250 (stand-alone; no conference pass required)
Accessibility can feel complex, but it doesn’t have to be. This preconference breaks down the essentials of accessible educational materials and assistive/accessible technology and shows how they work together with Universal Design for Learning (UDL).
Through guided discussion, examples, and practical application, participants will build a clearer understanding of how accessibility supports learner variability and strengthens everyday instruction. Walk away with actionable ideas and strategies for designing learning that works for all learners from the start.
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Understand and identify how accessible materials and technologies support diverse learners
- Recognize common barriers in educational materials and learning environments
- Apply practical accessibility strategies to instructional design and teaching
- Leave with actionable ideas for creating more inclusive learning experiences
Design for All: Exploring Universal Design for Learning
When: March 17, 2027 · 10am-3pm
Price: $250 (stand-alone; no conference pass required)
This session provides an overview of Universal Design for Learning (UDL), a research-based framework that supports inclusive and flexible teaching practices. Participants will explore the foundational principles of UDL, examine the UDL Guidelines, and apply them to real classroom examples by observing and analyzing teaching videos through a UDL lens. The workshop culminates in a hands-on activity where participants design or redesign a lesson using the UDL Lesson Designer, ensuring that learning experiences are accessible and engaging for all students. Whether you’re new to UDL or an experienced leader, this workshop will help you deepen your understanding and strengthen your ability to implement UDL effectively. Administrators will deepen their understanding of the research of UDL and implementation practices, educators have the opportunity to reflect on their teaching and enhance lessons with UDL.
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Describe the core principles of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and explain how learner variability influences instructional design
- Analyze learning experiences through a UDL lens to identify barriers and opportunities for increasing access, participation, and engagement
- Use the UDL Guidelines to make informed instructional decisions that support diverse learner needs, strengths, and preferences
- Apply the UDL design process to create or enhance a lesson that provides flexible pathways for engagement, representation, and action & expression
- Reflect on how UDL practices can foster learner agency, belonging, and meaningful participation in learning environments