Universal Design for Learning
Universal Design for Learning (or UDL) is defined by the Center for Applied Special Technology (CAST) as “an approach to curriculum that minimizes barriers and maximizes learning for all students”.
This concept, introduced in a graduate course, was unknown to me, and being intrigued, I began to dig for information on the concept. UDL can be utilized by educators, curriculum developers, researchers, parents, or anyone who wants to implement the UDL framework in a learning environment.
So you might be wondering if and why you would want to utilize such a framework. Incorporating the UDL framework means taking into consideration how each of us learns differently and having different motivations to do so. To begin using the UDL framework, you want to begin by asking questions about the goals for the information or concept being taught. Questions such as - What do I want my students to know, do, and care about? What barriers may prevent my diverse class from reaching these goals? - maybe considered. After determining such, you will want to assess your lesson plans according to the UDL guidelines established by CAST.
After familiarizing myself with Universal Design for Learning, I found that I was already incorporating many aspects of the “Representation” section of the UDL guidelines. I think this is the section most teachers will find themselves utilizing the most in their classrooms already. In planning to better my students’ experience right away in my classroom, I feel that I can begin to implement aspects of the “Action and Expression” section of the UDL guidelines. I find that I have already begun to alter the manner in which students select to share their learning on occasion, but will begin to offer such an option from now on. One aspect of the UDL guidelines that I will continue to familiarize myself with will be the “Engagement” section. Due to this being the beginning of the learning process, this is probably one of the most important sections. On my journey to becoming more proficient in this area, I plan to continue my study of the UDL guidelines by researching and reading more about the topic. I have found a pdf provided by Oakland University specifically on strategies for the Engagement piece of UDL (UDL - Engagement). Other great materials, some of which contain information on the other sections of UDL, include:
UC Santa Barbara: Instructional Teaching Resources - UDL (website)
The K-12 Educational Technology Handbook: Universal Design for Learning - Teacher Planning for Technology Integration by Esther MichelaUniversal Design for Learning: Theory and Practice by A. Meyer, D. Rose, and D. Gordon (book)
As I continue on my journey of actively working on incorporating UDL engagement strategies, I will use the resources listed above. I hope that you find these resources useful as well!
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