Universal Design Learning

Universal Design Learning is an instructional framework that educators use to teach students in multiple ways. The objective for the educators is to reach out to all students including children with exceptionalities, English language learners, as well as students with diverse needs. Watch the video below to learn more about Universal Design.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bDvKnY0g6e4

We often ask ourselves as educators: why universal design for learning?

We do know that there is no one size fits all solution when it comes to learning for all types of learners. Universal Design for learning provides teaching methods, materials, assessments, and instructional goals that are designed for all types of learners where flexible approaches are used to customize and meet the individual needs of the students. Using the curriculum, Universal Design Learning’s purpose is to help students become experts in how to learn. In return, this design reduces the barriers for students that could prevent them from learning. This not only provides optimal levels of challenge and support to students, but also addresses individual differences and needs. Universal Design Learning focuses on three main principles: providing multiple means of representation, action and expression, and engagement. The goal for Universal Design Learning is to provide a range of resources that will allow students to challenge and motivate themselves in their learning.

Some examples of Universal Design Learning are:

• Assignment options (unlike traditional classes students had one way to complete an assignment)

• Flexible workplace (small/large groups, floor space, headphones to tune out noise)

• Digital and audio texts (text to speech, audio books)

• Regular feedback from educators on student progress

What are your thoughts on Universal Design Learning? Let me know in the comments.

Yours Truly,

Tahera Teja