Dreamery Speaker Series with Luis Perez

Registration form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScOUhgwekizOA8KXO7p5PQWt9AC7vlTZZsmblsM2hUYHuVYvg/viewform?usp=pp_url
Zoom Link: https://psu.zoom.us/j/92377165093
10:15 – 11:45 a.m.: Essential for Some, Helpful for All: Designing for Inclusion with Universal Design for Learning
As a disabled person/person with a disability, Dr. Luis Perez has experienced first hand the power of Universal Design for Learning and accessible educational materials as tools for empowerment that level the playing field and allow every learner to realize their full potential. In addition to sharing his personal journey as a learner who has benefited from advancements in technology, in this talk Luis will share some insights from the learning sciences that challenge all educators to think differently about ability and disability, including the latest updates to the Universal Design for Learning Guidelines pioneered at CAST as a framework for designing barrier-free learning experiences.
12:00 – 1:00 p.m.: Lunch with Luis
Join Luis for lunch at the Dreamery to learn about his experience as an avid photographer whose work has been featured in Better Photography magazine, Business Insider, the New York Times Bits Blog and the Sydney Morning Herald.
1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.: SLIDE in into Accessibility: Five Best Practices for Getting Started
Following up from the keynote focusing on accessibility as a foundational component of Universal Design for Learning, this session will provide an entry point into the creation of accessible content for those who are new to this topic or just wish to have more hands-on practice with implementing accessibility best practices with familiar tools such as Microsoft Office and/or Google Workspace. You will learn about five practices captured in the mnemonic SLIDE that can have a significant impact on the learner experience for all students, especially those who rely on assistive technology for their access to the curriculum.
3:45 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.: Empowering Education: UDL, Accessibility, and Innovation
Join TLT and Penn State Accessibility for an afternoon fireside chat with Luis Perez, Disability & Digital Inclusion Lead for CAST, on increasing awareness and practical application of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) in teaching practices. This conversation will explore how UDL principles can create inclusive, flexible, and student-centered learning environments through curriculum design, assessments, classroom materials, and student interactions. Participants will gain insights, tips, and resources needed for effective UDL implementation while addressing challenges and sharing thoughtful strategies to enhance inclusivity.