Universal Design for Learning

All Types of Learners

Learning about Gardner's Multiple Intelligence Theory helped me understand differentiated instruction in the classroom and the different types of learners. Knowing this information also supports the achievement of an ISTE Teacher Technology Standard. The standard, in particular, is the Designer standard. In this assignment, my group and I were able to use technology to learn about these different types of learners to create a presentation to provide classmates with this info. This assignment also supported the point of designing authentic learning activities that align with content area standards and use digital tools and resources to maximize active learning in the classroom. Learning about the different types of learners also showed how teachers and students learn from each other. Teachers learn from students by educating themselves about the various types of learning behaviors their students may have while students are learning from their educators.

Universal Design for Learning

UDL is an educational approach that is used to meet the needs of all types of learners through three principles. The first of the three principles is the Multiple Means of Representation. This is the "what" of learning, that is utilized to help teachers present information in various ways. A source of technology that can be used is an online site, www.scholastic.com/parents/blogs/scholastic-parents-raise-reader/free-audio-books-and-why-you-should-try-them. This site helps with student perception with reading books accessible for both parents and students. The second principle is the Multiple Means of Action and Expression, known as the "how" of learning. With this principle, teachers have the ability to provide different ways that their students can express themselves. The Windows Magnifier feature (Windows Visibility Features) can also be used students with enlarging text and inverting color. The third principle is the "why" of learning, called Multiple Means of Engagement. This principle shows learners how to keep students engaged and motivated during lessons. Students can use Blogger to have access to their own online diary! Learning about UDL principles also helps educators with the achievement of ISTE Technology Standards.

Learning about The Multiple Means of UDL also supports the achievement of following ISTE's Teacher Technology Standards. The specific standard this supports is the Learner standard. In the Learning standard, educators improve their practice by learning from or with others and exploring practices that utilize technology to improve student learning and the UDL principles do just that! This project helps to prepare future teachers for the diverse learners that might be apart of their classroom roster in the future. Learning this information also exposes future educators to both online and offline sources that could be used in their own classroom setting to limit the level of adversity. Overall, learning about the UDL principles helps educators learn about different learners and themselves.