Universal design in education is becoming a core focus of The B!G Idea programme. We are delighted to be working with IDI (Institute of Designers in Ireland), CEUD (Centre for Excellence in Universal Design) and the NDA (National Disability Authority) to strengthen accessibility and inclusion across everything we do.
While there are plenty of acronyms involved, the goal is simple: make creative learning accessible to every student.
Through this partnership, we are embedding universal design and Universal Design for Learning (UDL) more deeply into the programme. As a result, learning resources, lesson content and digital accessibility will receive even greater priority.
In turn, students will develop a stronger understanding of:
Ultimately, this approach ensures that creativity works for everyone — regardless of learning style or ability.
We continue to improve accessibility across all programme materials. For example, we now include captions on all social media videos. This simple change makes content easier to follow for students who are hard of hearing and also benefits all learners.
Meanwhile, we are reviewing and refining:
Additionally, we are introducing clearer language across all materials. To support this, we are developing a student dictionary that explains key programme terms. Sometimes we use B!G Idea language without realising it, so this guide will ensure that every student and teacher understands exactly what we mean.
Importantly, teachers remain central to the programme’s success.
Therefore, we are developing accessibility guidelines for all classroom materials. These standards will ensure that The B!G Idea brand and accessibility principles remain consistent across every lesson.
At the same time, we continuously monitor and update our website to keep it clear, concise and easy to navigate. We even use a scoring system to check readability so that everything we publish remains accessible.
However, accessibility goes beyond materials and websites. We also continue to strengthen softer skills within the programme.
For example, students develop:
We introduce new activities that encourage active participation and experiential learning. As a result, students not only learn about universal design in education — they practise it.
With these developments in place, The B!G Idea moves confidently into 2022, building a more inclusive, accessible and creative future.
