Utilizing UDL into your Classroom
The previous picture depicts the necessary means of meeting the needs of our special needs students. It can also provide a pathway for meeting the needs of all our students; therefore, laying the foundation for the purpose of UDL. UDL was implemented when architectures were forced to design a structure that could assit everyone into the building. For example, if a building had a stairs then a ramp needed to be installed in order to accomodate someone in a wheel chair.
Brain base research stresses that there are different areas of our brain that influences our learning capabilities. For instance, Dr. David Rose states while listening to music there are various parts of the brain that use energy in order to comprehend the melody or harmony. Universal design is to meet the needs of all students regardless what areas of the brain are being used.
Technology can close the gaps that lie within each of our students. With the use of various tools, technology can assist the needs of every learning deficiency. Although, the planning my seem long and tedious, the outcome is well worth the work.
CAST Online Tools
1. Inspiration Software--is a great web tool to help students build concept maps or their own graphic organizers.
2.Childernslibrary.org--is a free source where a student can read books online. They are able to manipulate the text to make it bigger so they can take the book section by section.
3. CAST eReader--is software that will read text aloud for students. This can be useful for students who are reading articles online.
So, when you are wondering "how can you hold thirty hands when you only have two" (Howard, 2004).
UDL allows you to conquer the needs of all your students.
Reference
Howard, K. (2004). Universal design for learning. In the Curriculum, 31(5), 26-29.
Rose, D. (Performer) (2007). Dr. david rose on universal design for learning (udl) [Web]. Retrieved from http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yETe92mwoUE&feature=related