UDL often comes with a sense of pressure: more to do, more to build, more to manage.

In Part 2, Michelle Patterson helps us move past that overwhelm by reframing UDL as an iterative, human-centered design process. Instead of trying to do everything, she introduces practical ways to start small—what she calls the “plus one” approach.

The conversation also explores:

• How systems and leadership support reduce faculty burden
• Why learner choice increases depth and quality of work
• How AI can help identify hidden barriers in course design
• What it really means to balance firm goals with flexible paths

If you’ve ever wondered how to make UDL doable—not theoretical—this episode offers a grounded path forward.

Join us at www.engagedbydesign.com to learn more about

• The Course Design Accelerator
• Faculty-in-the-Loop AI in Higher Education

What if the biggest limitation in our course design is the idea of the “average learner”?

In this episode, Michael Cottam sits down with Michelle Patterson to explore Universal Design for Learning (UDL) as a mindset shift—not a checklist. Together, they unpack how designing for learner variability changes how we think about engagement, access, and success.

Rather than asking how to “fix” students, Michelle reframes the challenge: where are the barriers in our design?

You’ll hear practical examples—from buffet-style learning choices to simple structural supports—that show how small changes can make learning more effective for everyone.

This conversation is especially helpful if you’ve ever felt stuck trying to meet the needs of diverse learners with limited time and resources.

UDL Guidelines

About the UDL 3.0 Guidelines update

Harvard UDL: Explore and UDL: Apply

Join us at www.engagedbydesign.com to learn more about

• The Course Design Accelerator
• Faculty-in-the-Loop AI in Higher Education

In part two of our conversation with President Bruce Kusch of Ensign College, we explore Ensign College’s groundbreaking move to three-year bachelor’s degrees and what that means for the future of higher education.

President Kusch discusses accreditation challenges, workforce alignment, vocational education, AI disruption, and why colleges must rethink how they prepare students for meaningful careers. We also discuss leadership longevity, institutional alignment, and how mission clarity enables innovation.

This episode is especially relevant for higher education leaders navigating rapid technological and workforce change.

Key Topics

• The development of three-year bachelor’s degrees
• Accreditation and innovation challenges
• Workforce alignment and career readiness
• AI and the future of employment
• Vocational education and skilled trades
• Scaling online education globally
• Leadership, timing, and institutional change
• The difference between being a student and being a learner

Join us at www.engagedbydesign.com to learn more about

• The Course Design Accelerator
• Faculty-in-the-Loop AI in Higher Education