Universal Design for Learning (UDL)

Universal Design for
Learning
by
Tim Sinnaeve
Walden University
EDUC-6714

What is UDL?
O Universal Design for Learning, also known as
UDL, is an instructional method that provides
curriculum flexibility which makes the learning
goals achievable for all students with wide
differences in their learning abilities.
O All students have the ability to learn and UDL
is an approach teachers can use to ensure
material is challenging for each student.
O Teachers want to avoid a situation as
displayed in the following slide

UDL Inspiration
O All students have the ability to learn
O UDL provides the blueprint for creating
O Instructional goals
O Instructional methods
O Instructional materials
O Instructional assessments
O UDL is not a single one-size fits all
solution
O UDL is flexible, customizable and
adjustable to the individual learner.

UDL in the Physical
Environment

UDL Principles
O UDL is comprised of three principles that
support three primary brain networks:

Multiple Means of
Representation
Classroom Examples:
O Advance organizers used to cover expectations
O Use audio files to explain assignments
O Use a daily class agenda
O Use a clicker system to review lesson material
O Post all lesson documents online in multiple
formats so students are able to access the
needed information

Multiple Means
of Expression
Examples of classroom use:
O Use multiple assessment methods to
students can express knowledge in
multiple ways
O Give students the opportunity to choose
the type of assignment, which challenges
them and demonstrates the mastery of the
learning objectives
O Use discussion boards or blogs

Multiple Means of
Engagement
Classroom use:
O Create performance/problem based
assignments and assessments
O Allow students to set lesson goals
O Ensure grades are posted in a timely
manner
O Provide feedback to students and allow
students to provide feedback to the
teacher
O Develop group assignments requiring
collaboration

UDL and Technology
O Technology is not a must have
requirement of UDL, but it makes some
aspects of UDL easier
O Compact disc with textbook, allows for
enlarging font
O Clicker system
O Audio devices
O Optron machines
O Computers
O Software / Internet

Impact of UDL
O UDL can have the following impact on
student learning:
O Students become more engaged
O Students are challenged, but not overly
challenged allowing them to become
frustrated
O Students become motivated
O All students achieve the same learning
objectives
O Students become better learners

Brain Research
O The most important revelation is there are no
“regular” students
O Categorizing learners does not reflect reality
O The brain distributes processes to different
parts
O Each of the three networks of the brain has a
role in learning
O Patterns of strengths and weaknesses across
all three networks interact with the teaching
and learning environments

UDL Support
O UDL can support the learner in multiple
ways and by taking into account brain
research and the three networks of the
brain
O Provide options for:
O Perception
O Language and symbols
O Comprehension
O Physical action

UDL Support Con’t
O Provide options for:
O Expressive skills and fluency
O Executing functions
O Recruiting interest
O Sustaining effort and persistence
O Self-Regulation

CAST Tools / Resources
O Curriculum self-check: Explore resources
O This site can be used to help apply UDL
principles in your teaching to reach and engage
all of your students.
http://udlselfcheck.cast.org
O UDL lesson builder
O Provides educators with models and tools to
create and adapt lessons that increase access
and participation in the general education
curriculum for all students.
http://lessonbuilder.cast.org

CAST Tools/Resources Con’t
O UDL book builder
O Allows you to create, share, publish, and
read digital books that engage and support
diverse learners according to their
individual needs, interests, and skills.
http://bookbuilder.cast.org

References
CAST, Inc. (2007–2011). Curriculum self-check: Explore resources. Retrieved from
http://udlselfcheck.cast.org/resources.php#curriculum
CAST, Inc. (2002–2011). Teaching every student: Tools and activities. Retrieved from
http://www.cast.org/teachingeverystudent/tools/
CAST, Inc. (2006–2011). UDL book builder. Retrieved from http://bookbuilder.cast.org/
CAST, Inc. (2005–2011). UDL lesson builder. Retrieved from http://lessonbuilder.cast.org/
Google Images.
https://www.google.com/imghp?hl=en&tab=wi&ei=Bq_OU4GTOoKpyAS3vILICg&ved=0CAQ
Qqi4oAg
Laureate Education, Inc. (Executive Producer). (2009). Reaching an engaging all learners
through technology: Brain research and Universal Design for Learning. Baltimore, MD:
Author.
Rose, D., & Meyer, A. (2002). Teaching every student in the digital age: Universal design for
learning. Retrieved from http://www.cast.org/teachingeverystudent/ideas/tes/

Universal Design for Learning (UDL)

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