Universal Design: Learning Intended for All
Learning
A swirling spectrum of knowledge, intended to reach those with the greatest and least amounts of capability.
This building is in serious need of Universal Design!
These students are using an alternative style to bubbling in answers on a key.
Principles of Universal Design for Learning:
- Providing multiple methods of presentation.
- Providing multiple options for participation.
- Providing multiple means of expression.
Two students reading the same text, one from a book, one from a digital storytelling website.
Students working at their own level on reading skills.
Two students are working on a capacity project. One student is using illustration with captions, while the other student creates an explanation using text.
As you can see, including technology to a day's set of lessons provides students with many more options and opportunities for learning.
Brain Networks
Studies on brain networks are very closely linked to the three principles of UDL. The brain learns through three different networks:
I. Recognition
- This network processes patterns and is very closely linked to the Methods of Presentation.
II. Strategic
- This network process actions and plans and tell what strategies can be used to maximize learning. This network is very closely linked to Options for Participation.
III. Affective
- This network connects to emotion allowing the students to ask, "What process is best to complete this assignment?" This network is very closely linked to Means of Expression.
A large selection of technology will give students the opportunity to learn in the way that suites them best.
For other student resources on Universal Design, get online and look for CAST online tools. These tools will help you get started using Universal Design in your classroom.
Cast Online Tool: Science Writer
Cast Online Tool: Strategy Tutor
Cast Online Tool: UDL Editions