Universal Design: Empathy Mapping
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Authors
Rose, Rebecca
Glass, Kate
Issue Date
2026-02
Type
Presentation
Language
en
Keywords
UDL , inclusion , design thinking , empathy mapping , Educational Leadership & Learning Lifelong , LEX
Alternative Title
Abstract
, Our presentation introduces empathy mapping as the foundational stage of the Design Thinking process, emphasizing its value for understanding students’ needs, motivations, and behaviors. After outlining the five stages of Design Thinking (empathize, define, ideate, prototype, and test), the presenters focus on how empathy mapping supports user‑centered decision making. The deck explains that empathy maps help Learning Experience Designers move beyond assumptions, reduce bias, and form a shared understanding of diverse learners.
The presentation highlights why empathy maps matter: they uncover learner needs, reveal pain points, and guide clearer instructional decisions. Participants are shown how to use the map by developing a persona, identifying what the learner must do, and working through sections such as what the learner sees, hears, thinks, feels, says, and does. An example persona illustrates how two students in the same course may have very different experiences, reinforcing the idea that a one‑size‑fits‑all design is ineffective.
The session includes scenario‑based activities where groups build empathy maps and share high‑level insights. Closing slides emphasize perspective taking, non‑judgment, emotional understanding, and ongoing iteration. Participants are encouraged to revisit their maps as new research emerges and to use empathy as a driver of meaningful, learner‑centered solutions.