Developing Inclusive Education in Ireland

Implementation and results of a reflective inquiry project, Developing Inclusive Education in Ireland: The Case for UDL in Initial Teacher Education, carried out by preservice teachers in their final year of a Bachelor of Education (B. Ed.) programme in Dublin City University’s Institute of Education is discussed. The principles and approaches of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) are integrated in the context of inclusive education and the increasing diversity of learners in Irish classrooms. Students applied new knowledge and understanding of UDL to plan and teach lessons in their final practicum placement. Students documented their work as written research, including a literature review, findings and reflections. Key issues from the students’ findings and reflections on UDL in practice are discussed.