Yvel C. Crevecoeur, PhD

Memorable Experience(s) with CAST: 

I was inspired to be a part of CAST because the training I expected to receive would enhance my knowledge and skills in instructional design, using the Universal Design for Learning (UDL) framework as the lens for exploration. UDL has provided me with much more and helped me to explore universal design principles in the construction and implementation of assessments within the graduate courses I teach and in supporting the master’s degree candidate students I encounter in implementing these principles in their practices.

My entry point to universal design as a professor revolved around self-study evaluations of my attempts to design and implement instructional design principles that would help me establish inclusive communities of learners and instructional climates across the various courses that welcome all learners.

My experiences at CAST provided me with multiple and varied opportunities to learn deeply about student variability and the best ways to remove and minimize barriers to learning in the planning and implementation of lessons and the construction and implementation of assessments.

Reflecting on my time at CAST, I realized that my experiences since then have solidified the thought that the field must also help policymakers understand the need to make classrooms more welcoming to all learners. With this introspection, I have gradually incorporated a macro-level view of applying universal design principles to a wider audience to improve access to the general curriculum for students with exceptional learning needs.

Thus, my CAST postdoctoral leadership fellowship experiences continue to be one of the springboards used by me during high-level meetings where I articulate the desirable and needed quality indicators of evidence-based practices (EBPs) and situate the use of those EBPs in a mutually beneficial way with the use of the UDL framework. These efforts are needed as preliminary practical steps before providing informed recommendations to other researchers and the policymakers who shape future directions.

I look forward to seeing many more positive educational outcomes from CAST in the future!

What Does CAST Mean to You?

The opportunity to learn more about myself as a learner to understand better how to help others learn.

How has CAST Changed Over the Years?

Over the years, I have viewed CAST as a stronger advocate for all types of learners by designing learning environments that welcome a wider audience.

What Are You Most Excited About CAST Celebrating its 40th Anniversary?

I look forward to seeing CAST recognized as a beacon in the field of education and a "go-to" for research-based inclusive practices.