Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is a framework that aims to make curriculum accessible to all learners by providing multiple means of representation, engagement, and expression. UDL draws from universal design principles in architecture by designing buildings to accommodate all potential users. When applied to education, UDL means designing lessons from the start to be flexible and supportive for students with different abilities, backgrounds, and motivations. Implementing UDL principles involves using technology like interactive whiteboards, online textbooks, and assessment software to present information in varied formats and allow for different demonstrations of knowledge. This benefits all students by creating an inclusive learning environment.

1. Universal Design for Learning Supporting All Learners Through Technology Created by Brett PeruccoWalden University EDUC 6714l-4 January 28, 2011

2. What is UDL? UDL is essentially creating a learning environment to fit everyone’s needs. Think of a shopping mall: Wide variety of stores for different types of shoppers. The layout of the mall accommodates people as well as gives choices Stairs vs. Escalator vs. Elevator Food courts with wide variety

3. What is UDL continued… UDL comes from the idea of Universal Design UD is an architectural idea that it is better to design the building to meet the needs of everyone in all possible situations, rather than trying to make additions and changes later. Examples: Elevators, Ramps, Automatic Doors, Sidewalk Cutouts, Drinking Fountains at different heights, etc.

4. What is UDL continued… UDL expands on this idea in the fact that curriculum is designed with all types of learners in mind, so curriculum does not have to be rewritten whenever accommodations may need to be made. “Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is a framework for designing curricula that enable all individuals to gain knowledge, skills, and enthusiasm for learning. UDL provides rich supports for learning and reduces barriers to the curriculum while maintaining high achievement standards for all” (http://www.cast.org/index.html). Although UDL is primarily for children with special needs, it benefits everyone.

5. What is CAST? CAST or the Center for Applied Special Technology Main goal is to improve education through computer technologies and “apply UDL to education’s greatest challenges.” (http://www.cast.org, 2011) Mission Statement: “To expand learning opportunities for all individuals, especially those with disabilities, through Universal Design for Learning” (http://www.cast.org/about/index.html).

6. Why UDL? We already provide physical accommodations (ramps, elevators, automatic doors, etc. Why not learning accommodations for all? All students can be in a comfortable learning environment. All students can be successful.

7. Why our school? Our district has a large diverse population Language, socioeconomics, intelligences We are already equipped with the technology to assist our students. SMARTBoards, computers, laptop carts, Internet access, etc. We can reduce stress placed on teachers in meeting student learning goals without having to hire additional staff.

8. Principles of UDL Provide Multiple Means of Representation Perception Language and Symbols Comprehension Provide Multiple Means of Action and Expression Physical Action Expressive Skills and Fluency Executive Function Provide Multiple Means of Engagement Recruiting Interest Sustaining Effort and Persistence Self-Regulation

9. Using Multiple Means of Representation in the Classroom Readability: http://lab.arc90.com/experiments/readability/ Reading online can be difficult for struggling readers or students with ADD. This site allows any web page to be read in text format only. In other words, all ads and graphics are removed. Text can be enlarged, font can be changed, margins adjusted. UDL Editions: http://udleditions.cast.org/ Allows students to read select books. Tools such as highlighters, text to speech, and other help tools are available.

10. Using Multiple Means of Action and Expression in the Classroom Animoto: http://animoto.com/ Allows students to create high energy slide shows similar to a PhotoStory VoiceThread: http://www.voicethread.com Students can create a complex PhotoStory type document to present photos, videos, speech, and text documents. Voki: http://www.voki.com/ Create personalized speaking avatars. Helps improve writing skills.

11. Using Multiple Means of Engagement in the Classroom Guest speakers from local businesses SMARTBoards or Interactive White Boards Simulations or Project Based Learning Pacecar: http://pacecar.missingmethod.com/ Reading aid highlights specific parts of a website as you read. Bubbl: https://bubbl.us/ Free graphic organizer

12. Brain Research and UDL The brain consists of three main networks: Recognition Strategic Affective

13. Recognition Network (The “What” of Learning) “How we gather facts and categorize what we see, hear, and read. Identifying letters, words” (Cast.org, 2010) Information should be presented in an easy to understand manner, using various sensory methods. Students learn to transform the given information into knowledge.

14. Strategic Network (The “How” of Learning) Creating a plan on how to learn How students are able to demonstrate what they have learned

15. Affective Network (The “Why” of Learning) The reason for learning What motivates the students to learn? Why do they need to know this? How will learning affect out students? Better yet, how do our students perceive what they learn and how it affects them? Is this information significant and relevant?

16. So Now What? Teachers must understand that all students learn differently AND have the ability to learn. Teachers must consider their teaching strategies and methodology to accommodate all learners, in turn creating a better learning environment for everyone. Technology makes accommodating student learning easier, more affordable, and more realistic.

17. The Instructional Implications of Technology and Brain Research Technology lets us present the same information in a variety of ways to accommodate all learning styles. SMARTBoard Interaction, PowerPoints, Videos, Audio Clips Technology allows for data tracking and instant feedback through assessment software and other learning programs. Technology gives students the opportunity for independent learning through online learning programs as well as podcasts and vodcasts

18. CAST Tools – Book Builder http://bookbuilder.cast.org/ Allows teachers to “create, share, publish, and read digital books that engage and support diverse learners according to their individual needs, interests, and skills.” (Cast.org, 2010) District Implementation: Create easier to understand books/text for ELL students. Students that struggle reading could use the text-speech capabilities

19. CAST Tools – Lesson Builder http://lessonbuilder.cast.org/ “Provides educators with models and tools to create and adapt lessons that increase access and participation in the general education curriculum for all students.” (Cast.org, 2010) District Implementation: Create uniform lesson plans district wide. Create engaging lessons to meet the needs of all students.

20. CAST Tools - Strategy Tutor “Strategy Tutor helps students read, research, collect and understand information better and more efficiently.” (Cast.org, 2010) District Implementation: Assist students in grades 5-12 in planning and writing research papers with information gathered from the Internet. Help students feel more comfortable in doing research.

21. Works Cited Center for Applied Special Technology. (1999-2010). Transforming education through universal design for learning. Retrieved from http://www.cast.org on January 28, 2011. National Center on Universal Design for Learning. (2010). Transforming education through UDL. Retrieved from http://www.udlcenter.org/ on January 28, 2011. Stock.XchngFree Stock Images Retrieved from http://www.sxc.hu/January 28, 2011