UDL guidelines for teachers

Описание: This video briefly explains how UDL guidelines can be effectively used in the classroom for all learners. Below is a text copy of the audio.

Slide 1
Intro and music

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Hi, there. Let us address the elephant in the room. Not all students learn the same way; therefore, educators must create learning opportunities to address the needs of all students. The National Center on Universal Design for Learning (2014b) provides principles that allow educators to develop curriculum with equal opportunities for all types of learners.

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The Universal Design for Learning (UDL) has three networks to address the what, how, and why of learning. Recognition networks focus on the “what” of learning. Finding appropriate tools and resources to introduce what students are learning are important so that all students are able to grasp the content. Strategic networks focus on the “how” of learning. Students need to be provided multiple options of how they will demonstrate their understanding instead of it being the same assignment for every student. Physical impairments, language barriers, and learning styles are all examples of limitations that could prevent some students from doing what others can (National Center on Universal Design for Learning, 2014c). Affective networks focus on the “why” of learning. All learning should be purposeful and engaging for all students.

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As educators, we do not want any of our students feeling as if they are not good enough or incapable of learning, so effective strategies should be put in place. With the use of UDL guidelines and technology, students are much more likely to succeed. Although technology is not a requirement, it does open doors to experiences, possibilities, and outcomes that may be limited in the classroom (National Center on Universal Design for Learning, 2014a). Let us take a look at some examples.

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First, as an educator, you may choose to offer alternatives for auditory or visual information. Sometimes learners can comprehend information better if they can hear or see it rather than simply having text in front of them. Having a podcast or video of a lesson are easy yet effective ways to represent information in different formats. Students can also replay the lesson as many times as needed. These simple alternatives fall under the Recognition network of UDL by providing multiple ways to represent a lesson (National Center on Universal Design for Learning, 2014c).
Next, classroom discussions may be difficult for our shy students or even students with speech difficulties or language barriers. Using an online tool such as Voicethread.com can provide students with different methods of communication such as creating a video, audio, or texting their discussion on a collaborative board where others can comment as well. This is an example of using a strategic network to provide different options to communicate (National Center on Universal Design for Learning, 2014c).
Lastly, creating a variety of engagement is the affective portion of UDL. We want our students actively learning and engaged; therefore, we must provide opportunities for them to share their work beyond the classroom. Many times, students’ work does not go any further than the teacher grading it. With today’s technology and the use of UDL guidelines, teachers and students can make connections outside of the classroom to gain a deeper knowledge of the content being studied. One option is for students to share their work on student blogs. Peers, family, and other educators can view and comment on student work making the audience authentic and much broader than the classroom (National Center on Universal Design for Learning, 2014c).

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Ultimately, the possibilities of creating a positive learning environment for all learners are endless. Purposefully using UDL guidelines will ensure the classroom environment is safe and prepared for the variety of learners today to not only receive the best education possible but enjoy learning as well. Planning and implementing UDL strategies into your curriculum may be much easier when technology is available. Thank you for tuning in, and have a wonderful week!