International Journal for Universal Design and Universal Design for Learning

The International Journal of Universal Design and Universal Design for Learning (IJUDUDL) was launched at the joint 7th ICEQ and INCLUDE Conference, Power of Potential: Sharing Experiences from Universal Design for Learning (UDL) Journeys at the University of Worcester in June 2024.

The call for papers from conference participants for the first issue has been extended until December 9, 2024. IJUDUDL is made possible with the support of the Ministry of Education of Morocco, the University of Worcester, the INCLUDE Collaboratory, and the dedicated education professionals serving as editors, co-editors, and associate editors for this Open Access peer-reviewed journal. The inaugural issue will be available online early in 2025.

For inquiries about IJUDUDL, contact IJUDUDL@uiz.ac.ma

IJUDUDL Editorial Board

Editor: 
Professor Abdelaziz Bendou, President, Ibn Zohr University, Morocco

Deputy Editors:
Dr Seán Bracken, University of Worcester, United Kingdom
Professor Mustapha Aabi, Ibn Zohr University, Morocco
Dr Elizabeth Dalton, Inclusive Education Consultant, Rhode Island College (retired) USA

Co-Editors:
Professor Sujata Bhan, Shreemati Nathibai Damodar Thackersey Women’s University, Mumbai, India
Professor Susie Gronseth, University of Houston, USA
Professora Elizabete Cristina Costa Renders, Universidade Municipal de São Caetano do Sul (USCS), Brazil 
Associate Professor Judith McKenzie, University of Cape Town, South Africa
Dr Marcia Lyner-Cleophas, Stellenbosch University, South Africa 
Tracy Galvin, Lecturer in Higher Education Practice, Ulster University, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
Dr Emma Richardson, University of Worcester, United Kingdom  
Professor El Makhtar El Maouhal, University of Ibn Zohr, Morocco
Professor Wafa El Garah, Al Akhawayn University in Ifrane, Morocco
Lisa Padden, Dept. Dir. of UCD Access and Lifelong Learning, University College, Dublin, Ireland

About the Journal

Vision

The International Journal of Universal Design and Universal Design for Learning (IJUDUDL) is a platform dedicated to advancing research and practice in the fields of Universal Design (UD) and Universal Design for Learning (UDL). The journal’s vision is to drive the global conversation on inclusivity in wider society, and their applications in a diversity of human contexts including in social, technological, learning and built environments ensuring that  they are not only accessible and beneficial to all individuals and communities, regardless of their abilities or backgrounds, but are also reflective of diverse global and cultural contexts.

By focusing on these essential areas, the journal will contribute to the growing movement toward empowerment and equity of diverse individuals and communities, offering researchers, educators, and policymakers the tools and insights needed to create more inclusive and accessible and engaging spatial and learning environments. The journal’s importance is underscored by its unique position as the first of its kind, fully devoted to UD and UDL, filling a significant gap in the academic landscape while also broadening the global reach and impact of these vital concepts.

Scope

IJUDUDL will cover a wide range of topics related to UD and UDL, with a focus on both theoretical and practical aspects. The journal will welcome submissions in the following areas:

  • Innovative Practices: Case studies and empirical research on the implementation of UD and UDL across diverse environments whether they be social, technological, architectural or educational, and in the latter case, inclusive of early, primary, secondary, higher and further education institutions, whether these are community or state based or in traditional or virtual contexts. Cross disciplinary approaches to the practice, and theory, or UD and UDL are particularly welcome.
  • Theoretical Contributions: In-depth explorations of the theoretical foundations of UD and UDL, including the development of new models and frameworks that push the boundaries of social and educational accessibility and inclusion. 
  • Policy and Advocacy: Articles that analyze and propose policies promoting UD and UDL at local, national, and international levels, alongside advocacy efforts aimed at broadening the adoption of these frameworks.
  • Technological Integration: Research focused on the intersection of technology and inclusive design, exploring how AI and digital tools and platforms can enhance accessibility in social and learning environments.
  • Interdisciplinary Approaches: Contributions that investigate the intersections between UD, UDL, and other disciplines, such as cognitive science, architecture and environmental design, and social sciences, to create more holistic approaches to inclusion.
  • Global and Cultural Perspectives: Studies that offer insights into the application and adaptation of UD and UDL principles across different cultural, socio-economic, and educational contexts worldwide. Thus, studies that strengthen insights into realisation of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals are particularly welcome. 

Aims

This journal aims to:

  1. Establish Research Excellence: Encourage the submission of high-quality, peer-reviewed research that significantly contributes to the fields of UD and UDL.
  2. Facilitate Global Knowledge Exchange: Serve as a hub for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers to share insights, experiences, and best practices related to the implementation of inclusive design.
  3. Influence Policy and Practice: Provide evidence-based recommendations and guidelines that can shape educational practices and policies towards greater inclusivity.
  4. Support Professional Development: Offer designers, educators, administrators, and practical resources and guidance for implementing UD and UDL in their work.
  5. Promote International Collaboration: Build a global community of scholars and practitioners committed to advancing UD and UDL through collaborative research and practice.

Indexing Goals

To increase the journal’s visibility and impact, IJUDUDL will seek indexing in several databases such as Google Scholar and the Directory of Open Access Journals (DOAJ). With these initial steps, the journal aims to apply for Scopus, as well as other relevant indexing within two years of its first publication, ensuring it meets the highest standards of academic rigor and reach.

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