UDL and the Social/Emotional Aspects of Learning: Embedding Mental Wellbeing is Everyone's Business

Abstract

Abstract.

The emotional aspects of learning are important but sometimes neglected elements of Universal Design for Learning (UDL). This paper discusses a multi-faceted project to embed mental wellbeing at De Montfort University, Leicester, a UK university with an established UDL policy.  The project encompassed the development of teacher training to consider student variability in emotional responses to learning; the provision of tutor resources to support the embedding of learning about wellbeing within the curriculum; and approaches to sharing practice across the campus. This paper argues that academic staff are key players in the support of students’ mental wellbeing and that a whole organisation approach, rather than a narrow focus on the provision of mental health support services, is an effective route to improving students’ mental wellbeing.