Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is a framework that provides options for engagement, representation, and action and expression based on how the brain learns best. UDL addresses the affective, recognition, and strategic networks of the brain. It removes barriers to learning by designing for variability. Digital tools can be used to provide multiple means of engagement, representation, and action/expression by appealing to different learning networks through options like videos, interactive maps, screen reading software, and speech-to-text.

1. Universal Design for
Learning
strategies to support all learners

2. What is Universal Design for Learning (UDL)?
UDL is a framework to optimize
teaching and learning for ALL
people, based on scientific
insights into how people learn.
UDL addresses three areas of the
brain necessary to be activated
in order for people to learn:
Affective networks (the why),
Recognition Networks (the what);
and Strategic Networds (the
how).
(www.cast.org)

3. UDL and NeuroScience
This video shows the
connection between UDL
and neuroscience.

4. Why does it matter?
The average is a myth. If we
design for the average, we
design for no one.
UDL helps to build
understanding of variability
of learning. This remove
barriers for learners, making
teaching more effective and
learning more accessible.

5. How do I do it?
There are many digital tools that can be used to
provide learners with a range of effective options to
engage, access content and represent learning in
meaningful ways.

6. Multiple Means of Engagement
Multiple means of engagement
refers to providing students
with options for self
regulation; options for
sustaining effort and
persistence and options for
recruiting interest
It appeals to the affective
networks of the brain
Image source: http://www.udlcenter.org/aboutudl/whatisudl

7. Digital Tools for Engagement
-Online tools for engagement (flipgrid, forums, TikTok)
-Google Forms for check-ins
-Game based learning apps - Prodigy for math
-Collaborative digital tools - kahoot, jeopardy, socrative
for studying
-Self paced online tools (Quill, IXL, Isolveit)

8. Multiple Means of Representation
Multiple means of representation refers
to providing students with options for
accessing information. This could
include options for language,
mathematical expression and symbols,
visual, textual or oral represention.
It also addresses sensory difficulties
that may make traditional presentation
inaccessible for some learners.
It appeals to the recognition networks
of the brain.
Image source: http://www.cast.org/udl/

9. Digital Tools for Representation
-Video (Youtube, Vimeo, etc.)
-Screen reading software - Google Read/Write, Google Lens,
etc.)
-Use of interactive maps, graphs, 3D modelling
-Allow ability to change text size, change contrast, letter
spacing, etc.

10. Multiple Means of Action & Expression
Multiple means of action and expression
refers to providing students with
options for expressing their learning.
This includes options for
communication, physical action and for
executive functioning.
It appeals to the strategic networks in
the brain.
Image source: http://www.cast.org/udl/

11. Digital Tools for Action & Expression
-Video/audio recordings as a choice for responding
-Speech to Text software
-Digital apps for planning/goal setting (My school day app)
-Digital art storyboarding, graphic design for demonstrating
learning