Universal Design for Learning (UDL) aims to make curriculum accessible to all students by providing multiple means of representation, engagement, and action/expression. UDL acknowledges students' diverse abilities and needs by implementing flexible learning experiences. Specifically, UDL incorporates various ways to present information so all students can perceive and understand it, offers options for physical expression and executive functions, and provides means to recruit interest and sustain effort. The goal is for every student to be a successful learner.

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Universal Design Learning
Lisle Berndsen
Assignment 2.3
EDP 279

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What is Universal Design?
 “The design of products and environments to be usable by all
people, to the greatest extent possible, without the need for
adaption or specialized design” (Burgstahler)
 In other words: designing something so that it meets the needs
of its users, who possess diverse characteristics
 Example: Installing wheel chair ramps as well
as stairs meets the needs of individuals
both with and without physical disability

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How is it Relevant in the
Classroom?
 Two key points: the
curriculum is …
UNIVERSAL
EVERYBODY
LEARNS
 Fixed and narrow curriculum is
designed for some students but not
all. There is no “average student”
(UDLCenter)
 Students have a ride range of
abilities, knowledge, and skills. Their
diverse needs and learning styles
need to be acknowledged in the
classroom, and UDL can help!
 UDL implements learning experiences
that work across a wide spectrum
(from “struggling” to “gifted” students)
 Makes sure everyone is a successful
learner

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Principle 1: provide multiple means
of representation
 Every child can perceive the
information
 Every child can understand
the way information is
represented
 Information is
comprehendible
Some of the many means of presenting information
(UDLCenter)

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Principle 2: multiple means of action
and expression
 Options for physical
expression
 Options for
expression and
fluency
 Options for
executive functions
These math tools provide numerous methods to express knowledge
(UDLCenter)

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Principle 3: provide multiple means
of engagement
 Options for recruiting
interest
 Options for sustaining
effort and persistence
 Options for self-regulation
Interested students as a result of UDL!
(UDLCenter)

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Works Cited
 Burgstahler, S. (2012). Universal design: process, principles, and
applications. Retrieved from
http://www.washington.edu/doit/Brochures/Programs/ud.html
 UDLCenter. (Producer). (2010, March 17). The UDL Guidelines
[Web Video]. Retrieved from
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rfsx3DGpv5o&feature=relmfu
 UDLCenter. (Producer). (2010, March 17). UDL: Principles and
Practice [Web Video]. Retrieved from
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pGLTJw0GSxk
 UDLCenter. (Producer). (2010, March 17). The UDL Guidelines
[Web Video]. Retrieved from
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rfsx3DGpv5o&feature=relmfu