The document discusses UDL (Universal Design for Learning) and assistive technology (AT). UDL aims to provide access to lesson materials for all learners by adapting materials as needed. AT refers to tools that individuals can use to access materials, such as screen magnifiers, text-to-speech software, and specialized keyboards. The document encourages educators to be aware of UDL and AT to help all students learn effectively regardless of their abilities.

1. UDL AND
ASSISTIVE
TECHNOLOGY
By
Eileen Leese

2. UDL - DEFINITION
UDL (Universal Design for Learning) is the way one
provides access to a lesson for all individuals, through
adapting the material as needed for individual
learners.
Making the lesson plan material available for visual
learners, auditory learners, impaired learners, different
language learners, etc., but in a way that they can
successfully access and learn from the information.

3. UDL FOR EDUCATORS
Instructors will need to create materials, lesson plans,
web material, etc. to be available for all users,
regardless of ability or different ability. Some examples
are below:
Can have material translated into another language.
Have text to speech options available.

4. AT - DEFINITION
AT (Assistive Technology) are tools an individual uses
to access material.
Some assistive technology tools are:
a wheelchair to get from one location to another.
copier machine that enlarges font for a visually impaired
student.
Text to speech reader.
Braille printer.

5. AT FOR EDUCATORS
Teachers and staff should be aware of some assistive
technology tools, or have a resource center on campus
who focuses on assistive technology, from which they
can gather information. Knowing what tools are
available to use, for the instructor and/or the student,
can assist the learner to work within a classroom
effectively and successfully.

6. AT - APPLE TOOLS
Some key tools are:
Screen magnifiers to enlarge font
Computer mouse with preset keys to assist a user navigate the computer screen
If mouse is too difficult to use, a set of keyboard keys can be customized to
navigate the mouse to move.
Voice overs
Keyboard shortcuts to be customized to make navigating faster and easier.
The trackpad on a laptop (or external one for a desktop version) allows users
to use their who hand or finger combination to navigate and use the computer
instead of with a traditional mouse.

7. ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
Universal Design for Learning
http://ada.osu.edu/resources/fastfacts/Universal-Design-FF.pdf
University of Washington DO-IT
http://www.washington.edu/doit/
University of Washington
Working Together: People with Disabilities and Computer Technology
http://www.washington.edu/doit/Video/index.php?vid=33