Universal Design for Learning (UDL)

Universal Design for Learning is a very modern approach to reach all students’ academic successes in today’s classrooms.  In short, UDL is also supportive in assisting diverse learners and individuals with learning disabilities or differences.  In it’s definition on the wiki site, it states,  

Universal Design for Learning helps meet the challenge of diversity by suggesting flexible instructional materials, techniques, and strategies that empower educators to meet these varied needs.  A universally designed curriculum is designed from the outset to meet the needs of the greatest number of users, making costly, time-consuming, and after-the-fact changes to curriculum unnecessary.


Becoming in touch with this UDL ideal I am excited.  This resource seems beneficial for both the learners and teachers who educate them.  Most of all, this unique style is a change to the norms of learning and achieving.  Perhaps more can be met and through UDL, change is good.

Apparent in the above picture, there are three key principles for UDL:

Multiple Means of Representation

Multiple Means of Expression

Multiple Means of Engagement

Multiple Means of Representation

• This endures the process of learning
• Known as the "what of learning"
• Includes the different ways how learners perceive and comprehend information
• Provides varied options for students to grasp the presented material
• Technology is a key source
• visual representations, videos, electronic books (e-books), etc.

Multiple Means of Expression

• This endures the skills or strategies used to teach material to students
• Known as the "how of learning"
• Due to differences, students vary in how they navigate in a learning environment, expressing what they know
• From there, countless options for individuals to comfortably express their understandings are available
• podcasting, on-screen keyboards, talking word processors, alternate assessments and WIKIs in the classroom

Multiple Means of Engagement

• This endures the various ways in which students are engaged and motivated
• Known as the "why of learning"
• Much discretion/autonomy for choices and selections is key
• Class involvement in classroom activities should be existent
• With teacher assistance, students can set their own goals
• A great and applicable practice for students is blogging

Present in all of the links are great examples, video-clips about these principles used in today's classrooms.  I hope you enjoy this blog as a resource being a teacher, student, parent or interested person!  Please follow my blog to learn about more effects and support of UDL and assistive technology.  All students have bright futures!