Welcoming our new UDL Fellows: Thorsten Knipfer and Duncan McHugh
March 10, 2025 – Thorsten Knipfer (Assistant Professor, Applied Biology) and Duncan McHugh (LFS Digital and Instructional Media Producer) have been selected to join the third cohort of the Universal Design for Learning (UDL) Fellows Program. This fellowship, supported by the Office of the Provost and Vice-President Academic, will help them further develop expertise in UDL through a professional development program, ultimately benefiting teaching, learning, and community engagement across our Faculty.
Knipfer integrates dynamic teaching methods—such as problem-based learning and just-in-time quizzes—to motivate student learning. He fosters strong relationships with growers, bridging research outcomes with real-world application through webinars and field days. For upper-level students, he leads APBI405 to help senior Applied Biology learners deepen their skills in research, communication, and knowledge integration.
As a digital and instructional media producer, McHugh supports various teaching and learning projects, from decolonizing curriculum to student recruitment and scientific research communication. His continued engagement in the UDL Fellowship will encourage the widespread adoption of inclusive teaching practices throughout the Faculty and UBC’s Digital Media Community of Practice.