Theses and Dissertations

Date of Award

2024

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Education (EdD)

Department

Abraham S. Fischler College of Education and School of Criminal Justice

Advisor

Beverly Knox-Pipes

Committee Member

Michael Simonson

Keywords

online learning, course development, UDL, distance education, HBCU

Abstract

Historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) contributed to over 20% of all bachelor’s degrees earned by African American students. Since the 2019 pandemic, HBCUs have provided more online course offerings to their students. The continued success of HBCUs depends on their ability to grow with technology. This study examined the lived experiences of faculty applying universal design for learning (UDL) principles in online courses at HBCUs. This study was conducted to gain insight into the impact UDL had on retention rates, learning experience, and implementation. Online courses at HBCUs are underdeveloped, which poses a problem for continued growth and success for students enrolled in courses.

Through interpretive phenomenological analysis, the researcher found that support from college deans and directors is essential for implementing UDL within online courses. Applying UDL principles within an online course increased student engagement and course completion. The issue of limited federal and state fund allocations to HBCUs makes it imperative for these institutions of higher learning to apply cost-effective strategies that aid in the development of robust online courses that meet the needs of all learners.

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