Seán Bracken – författare

Providing insight into the background, theory and practical applications of Universal Design for Learning (UDL), Transforming Higher Education through Universal Design for Learning: An International Perspective examines and shares best practice in UDL implementation worldwide to provide strategies for strengthening student accessibility, engagement and learning outcomes through the development of flexible learning environments.Drawing upon insightful, research-based contributions from educators and student service specialists in Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Ireland, Israel, Norway, South Africa, Spain, the UK and all across the USA, this book: considers diversity in the form of disability, minority ethnic groups, gender identities, first generation university students and varying socio-economic backgrounds; brings together key thinkers and actors in the field of UDL and expertly maps its practices to the higher educational domain; explores the multiple means of representation, expression and engagement that combine to create a successful UDL framework.Each chapter not only provides a different perspective of how UDL has helped meet the needs of all students to ensure that education is accessible, culturally responsive and socially just, but also considers how this can then be implemented into higher education environments the world over. This book is a crucial read for those who want to make a positive difference in higher education provision and outcomes.

Providing insight into the background, theory and practical applications of Universal Design for Learning (UDL), Transforming Higher Education through Universal Design for Learning: An International Perspective examines and shares best practice in UDL implementation worldwide to provide strategies for strengthening student accessibility, engagement and learning outcomes through the development of flexible learning environments.Drawing upon insightful, research-based contributions from educators and student service specialists in Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Ireland, Israel, Norway, South Africa, Spain, the UK and all across the USA, this book: considers diversity in the form of disability, minority ethnic groups, gender identities, first generation university students and varying socio-economic backgrounds; brings together key thinkers and actors in the field of UDL and expertly maps its practices to the higher educational domain; explores the multiple means of representation, expression and engagement that combine to create a successful UDL framework.Each chapter not only provides a different perspective of how UDL has helped meet the needs of all students to ensure that education is accessible, culturally responsive and socially just, but also considers how this can then be implemented into higher education environments the world over. This book is a crucial read for those who want to make a positive difference in higher education provision and outcomes.

This book explores the multifaceted concept of learner voice in education, emphasising its significance across various contexts and historical periods. It brings together diverse perspectives from multiple authors, addressing how learner agency can shape educational practices and policies, particularly in contemporary settings.The chapters delve into critical themes such as the influence of teachers' beliefs on student learning, the impact of polarisation in our current educational discourse and the historical voices of children in Victorian schools. Notable case studies include a narrative approach to understanding higher education students' experiences and the examination of learner voice within prison education. The book also addresses pressing issues such as the representation of marginalised voices and the importance of inclusive practices in school leadership and curriculum design. Groundbreaking content includes discussions on "epistemic violence", highlighting the need for a more nuanced, considered and critically aware approach to learner representation.This important collection will be essential reading for educational studies students and trainee teachers, as well as educators working in further or higher education. It provides practical insights and theoretical frameworks that constitute a roadmap for strengthening diverse learners’ voice and agency, thereby advancing educational equity and inclusion for all.

This book explores the multifaceted concept of learner voice in education, emphasising its significance across various contexts and historical periods. It brings together diverse perspectives from multiple authors, addressing how learner agency can shape educational practices and policies, particularly in contemporary settings.The chapters delve into critical themes such as the influence of teachers' beliefs on student learning, the impact of polarisation in our current educational discourse and the historical voices of children in Victorian schools. Notable case studies include a narrative approach to understanding higher education students' experiences and the examination of learner voice within prison education. The book also addresses pressing issues such as the representation of marginalised voices and the importance of inclusive practices in school leadership and curriculum design. Groundbreaking content includes discussions on "epistemic violence", highlighting the need for a more nuanced, considered and critically aware approach to learner representation.This important collection will be essential reading for educational studies students and trainee teachers, as well as educators working in further or higher education. It provides practical insights and theoretical frameworks that constitute a roadmap for strengthening diverse learners’ voice and agency, thereby advancing educational equity and inclusion for all.

With increasing numbers of learners in secondary schools having English as an additional language, it is crucial for all teachers to understand the learning requirements of these students and plan distinctive teaching approaches to engage and support them. This book provides school leaders, trainee teachers and qualified teachers with the skills and practical knowledge they need to strengthen the learning outcomes of students for whom English is an additional language.Teaching English as an Additional Language in Secondary Schools sets out realistic ways in which EAL learners can be engaged and stretched in their learning, building on their prior literacy, cultural experiences and language learning. It clearly explains the theory and key research into how additional languages are acquired and offers practical classroom teaching and learning strategies to show teachers how they can help EAL learners to access the curriculum and reflect on their learning through assessments. Features include: tasks to help put the ideas into practice case studies illustrating the key challenges faced by EAL learners summaries of key research findings reflections to encourage deeper thinking.Drawing on the daily experiences of teachers and teaching assistants, this book will be essential reading for all trainee and practising teachers that want to ensure students with EAL fulfil their true learning potential.