Description and Purpose
Universal design for learning (UDL) is a teaching approach that works to accommodate the needs and abilities of all learners and eliminates unnecessary hurdles in the learning process. This means developing a flexible learning environment in which information is presented in multiple ways, students engage in learning in a variety of ways, and students are provided options when demonstrating their learning.
How UDL is Implemented in the Classroom
There are three principles of UDL—and within them nine guidelines—necessary for a universal curriculum:
Principle 1: Provide Multiple Means of Representation. Alternative means of presenting instructional material can reduce perceptual or learning barriers and can improve students’ ability to recognize things.
Guideline 1: Provide options for perception.
Guideline 2: Provide options for language, mathematical expressions, and symbols.
Guideline 3: Provide options for comprehension.
Principle 2: Provide Multiple Means of Action and Expression. Universal design for learning allows students to respond with their preferred means of control.
Guideline 4: Provide options for physical action.
Guideline 5: Provide options for expression and communication.
Guideline 6: Provide options for executive functions.
Principle 3: Provide Multiple Means of Engagement. Finally, students’ interests in learning, as indicated by their engagement, can be matched with the modes of presentation and response and can increase student motivation.
Guideline 7: Provide options for recruiting interest.
Guideline 8: Provide options for sustaining effort and persistence.
Guideline 9: Provide options for self-regulation.
For additional information on UDL, please visit these resources:
https://udlguidelines.cast.org/
https://publications.ici.umn.edu/ties/universal-design-for-learning-modules/module-1-the-why-of-udl
Readings:
McLeskey, J., Rosenberg, M. S., & Westling, D. L. (2018). Inclusion: Effective practices for all students (3rd ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Education Resources.
Cornell. Center for Teaching Innovation. Cornell University. https://teaching.cornell.edu/
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