Incorporating Universal Design for Learning in Chinese Course Curriculum

Frances Yufen Lee Mehta, Cornell University

February 15, 2014

This study examines how pedagogical innovation integrating Universal Design for Learning (UDL) may enhance the learning of Chinese Mandarin among the increasingly diverse student body. It will first investigate UDL principles and methods and address practice of promoting fluency and higher lexicon and formality. Finally it will propose strategies to improve individuals’ literacy proficiency while expanding their own knowledge of Chinese matters and intercultural competence.

In the wake of increasing demand for higher-order skills and critical thinking abilities, it is essential to design innovative curricula, taking into consideration effective placement, intellectual capacity, background and interest-appropriate topics to enforce fluency in higher level lexicon and use of formal register. Curricular activities must continue to evolve to meet the needs of diverse student population, including learners with overseas experience, newer immigrants, and international students from non-Chinese speaking regions. UDL, the pedagogy practice striving to create a learning environment for individual learning and experiences, provides essential steps for the more diverse learners. By implementing flexible approaches and innovative activities, UDL meets the needs of various learners and hence makes them become expert learners.

This study argues that topics of personal academic interests will speed learners’ grasp and active use of higher-level lexicon. Innovative pedagogical practices applying UDL will be explored to enhance students’ language proficiency with a focus on expanding vocabulary and elevating formality level of discourse. Focused on critical video viewing, forum discussions, and oral presentations as ways of promoting accuracy and fluency, students will develop a more formal and sophisticated language while acquiring knowledge on complex topics at a more advanced level. Participants will learn how effective curriculum design and implementation with UDL in mind helps further stimulate individual contribution and accelerate language proficiency.