Universal Design for Learning

Introduction to Universal Design for Learning (UDL)

Now, choose your own adventure by clicking on each topic below. Engage a little or a lot – the choice is yours.

WHY

Why do we need to consider Universal Design for Learning?

The face of education in Canada and throughout the world is changing. Textbooks are becoming a tool of the past and technology is exploding. Learners are diverse and have varying needs, skills, talents, interests and experiences that they bring to the classroom. Therefore, educators need to expand and adapt the way they teach and vary the materials and assessments they employ, so that an equitable, flexible education is available to all learners.

WHAT

What is Universal Design for Learning?

So now we have a better understanding of what UDL is. It’s based on individual differences in brain function, it’s flexible and student centered, students can make choices and become more involved in their learning, and it creates innovative and inclusive learning environments. The benefits include reducing barriers to learning, increasing student engagement and therefore academic retention, empowers self-direction, creates flexibility in design and delivery of material, and finally, it supports the Ontario Government’s mandate under the AODA legislation.

HOW

How to Incorporate UDL into the Classroom

In classrooms everywhere there are learners who either tune out lectures, can’t absorb what is written in a text book, or who can’t see or hear the video being played. Some will excel and some will fall behind. When Universal Design for Learning Principles are used in the classroom the needs of ALL students are supported. How then can we incorporate the principles of UDL in the classroom?

UDL How-to:

Full Video

While the WHY, WHAT and HOW sections represent the totality of my research, I’ve also captured my findings in the following 35 minute long video.