Author:
From my experience in the IT industry in Nigeria, I have seen how certain teaching methods in technical training programs can leave some learners out in the cold. As someone who has been in this field for a while now, I have come to realize the necessity of a much more inclusive approach to education. One potential framework that I see is the Universal Design for Learning (UDL), which, in this instance, was framed and interpreted using the edtech toolkit of CAST (2018). UDL, in its essence, is about offering multiple means of engaging, representing, and expressing oneself.
In Nigeria, courses in the technology cloud computing are often reliant on heavy text and lecture-based delivery. This makes them less accessible and hence, of limited value, to many potential learners. For instance, in cisco training, the instructor emphasized the rote memorization of IP addresses instead of interactive, hands-on learning. This led to the marginalization of learners who preferred visual methods or real-time demonstrations and learners who needed to work with their hands and who had difficulty learning without simulations of laboratory work. This experience underscores a major gap in traditional IT training, where rigid teaching methods fail to accommodate diverse learners. Applying UDL principles would close this gap, fostering an inclusive learning environment where students of all abilities and learning styles can access and excel in IT education.
Incorporating practical simulations and project-based assessments enhances accessibility, particularly for students with disabilities. As an aspiring educator, I will apply these strategies by leveraging flexible e-learning tools and collaborative learning environments, ensuring adaptive and inclusive learning experiences for all students.
Despite its benefits, UDL implementation faces barriers in Nigeria’s IT training:
|
Challenges |
Solution |
| Restricted availability of technology | Utilize learning resources available in an offline format, such as tutorials on USB and visual guides in print. |
| Time and resource limitations | Begin with basic UDL methods (e.g., using visual support) and slowly increase their use over time. |
Considering my experiences in Nigeria’s IT sector, I see UDL as a way of making IT training more inclusive. By prioritizing inclusivity, effective scaffolding, and diverse assessments, educators can create IT training programs where every learner regardless of ability or background has the opportunity to succeed.
Reference:
CAST. (2018). Universal design for learning guidelines, version 2.2. Retrieved from https://udlguidelines.cast.org
Hi Tochukwu, thanks for your sharing of your IT experience in Nigeria. It is important as Min said in her post – student’s learning styles must be considered , for the knowledge to be transferred in a comprehensible manner. It cannot be about memorization – students need hands-on experience, and they need to visualize computer components to understand. In IT financial cost can be a barrier (as you mentioned)to the implementation of UDL – computers and their software cost money. But we must start somewhere, we cannot just wake up and do it in a week it will take time, money, and patience to bring about.
Hi Tochukwu, thanks for your sharing of your IT experience in Nigeria. Your sharing effectively highlights the need for inclusivity in Nigeria’s IT training programs and how UDL principles can bridge existing gaps. As Min pointed out, considering students’ learning styles is crucial for knowledge transfer. IT education cannot rely solely on memorization—hands-on experience and visualization are essential. While financial costs are a barrier, as you mentioned, implementation must start somewhere. It requires time, money, and patience, but gradual steps like offline resources as you ponted out and adaptive tools can make IT education more accessible in Nigeria.
Hi Tochukwu, thank you for your sharing. You demonstrated the current teaching problems existing in courses in the technology of cloud computing in Nigeria with examples. You tried to address those challenges with the appropriate use of UDL principles, which will foster inclusivity, equality, and possibility. However, we know that it is really hard to make changes. The instructors are the ones who need to change at first, from their awareness to practical teaching acts. You may be the first change you want to see there! I hope there will be more support and solutions shortly both in your country and my country!
Excellent discussion about integrating UDL principles in IT in your context. These would promote authentic, hands-on learning to promote understanding for diverse learners. The challenge is to implement these principles in the classroom.