Advocating for Universal Design | Jennefer Rousseau | TEDxBowValleyCollege

Jennefer Rousseau is an instructor in the Centre for Excellence in Foundational Learning. Jennefer is an excellent example of when we dedicate ourselves to a field, we begin to see how we can evolve our disciplines. Whether it’s improving technology, addressing gaps in theories, or better serving a community, finding methods and opportunities for advancement is critical for transformation. Jennefer Rousseau offers an example of just that, in her talk “Advocating for Universal Design”. Taking risks in education, may create the necessary experience for a learner that is to facilitate their success. Jennefer Rousseau is an instructor in the Centre for Excellence in Foundational Learning. Jennefer was an active club member and executive member of the Bow Valley College Toastmasters Club, completing her Competent Communicator and Competent Leader manuals. Her areas of interest include research, technology, online learning, and improving quality standards in learning management systems. This path has led Jennefer to study universal design for learning, the future topic of her Master’s thesis, which she is currently pursuing at Memorial University. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at www.ted.com/tedx

[@civilizeddiva]

In real life, when we have challenges to solve, no one takes away our internet, resource contact lists, etc. We still have our resources, but *we* have to think and problem solve. That said, I believe educators are adapting to the needs of their students. All of their students.

[@paigeherrin29]

Thats universal design’s goal!

[@billwong6077]

Interesting talk. This made me think back of my past in regards to education. When I was young, exams to me was extremely high stakes, since all of each quarter's grades (HK uses the quarter system- and it has 4) worth 100% of the grade. On top of that, we have the dreaded bell curve system- where only a certain % of students gets a certain grade no matter what everyone does. Whenever I told my classmates in the US after I immigrated to the country, they all said the system was nuts. Such a system definitely was not universal design friendly at all! I am definitely a fan of open book tests. Another universal design element that it brings is that it negates the disadvantage for people with big handwriting (and I do) when they try to cram everything onto a cheat sheet or two. Of course, we also need a certain number of exams that are closed books and closed notes, too. After all, in the professional world that I am in (I am an occupational therapist by trade), our license exams are closed books with no notes... but we do have systems in place for accommodations if needed be. Anyway, you did a great job! I am a 2 timer on this very stage myself. I can see that you are extremely poised and your concepts are very easily understood! The only thing I wished it has changed is the title. I was definitely misled initially. I think spelling out on the title that it is about universal design of learning will make the title a lot clearer for those who will see this on KZbin like me.

[@jenneferrousseau2087]

Thank you for your comments Bill. I agree with you about the title. After reading your comments, I realized right away how the title could mislead someone to believe my talk is about architecture and/or design. Because I work in education, I often forget that the rest of the world does not revolve around teaching and learning, even if mine does. I wonder if I can change it?

[@neimaabduljabar7429]

Dear Jenefer you are the best I am luck to be your student