Universal Design for Learning

Tech Tip: 

The National Center on Universal Design for Learning  defines UDL as a set of principles for curriculum development that give all individuals equal opportunities to learn. As we move forward with a 1:1 environment, building curriculum from a new perspective, it is important that we include the principle of UDL in the process. The concept goes beyond personalization and differentiation and in many situations, technology can provide the opportunities necessary for each child to learn. 

UDL Guidelines Graphic Organizer | National Center On Universal Design for Learning." UDL Guidelines Graphic Organizer | National Center On Universal Design for Learning. N.p., n.d. Web. 18 Oct. 2013.

 The following provide ideas and examples demonstrate how we can use the tools we already have to begin this process. Remember to start with the curriculum concept; the technology is the tool we use to help the students reach the goal by providing Multiple Means of Representation; Action and Expression; and, most importantly, Engagement.

 

Maximizing Google                                

 
As we move toward utilizing Google Drive for assignment submission, communication and collaboration, there are apps that are available to support UDL. As we consider UDL guidelines, the use of Voice Comments addresses several areas. including 5.1 Use multiple media for communication, and 8.4 Increase mastery-oriented feedback. The following video shows a teacher demonstration of how to add the Voice Comments App in Google Drive as well as how to record and share comments with the student. How powerful is it for the student for us to provide our thinking as we evaluate instead of a red pen brief comment?

*Please note: Voice Comments is now Kaizena

 

Featured App   

Social Worker Todd Barlass has had great success working with students on the autism spectrum use the iPad app The Social Express. The app moves students through social scenarios to identify social cues and choose appropriate social behaviors. The "lite" version is free. 

                        

  As Social Express is intended for elementary to middle school students, an alternative may be necessary for older students. Always consider the development level of the student that you are working with when choosing an intervention or assistive strategy. Often development is a greater indicator than age for finding the right fit.

Moving Forward with Moodle

Moodle has a tracking feature that fits well with UDL guideline 6.4 Enhance capacity for monitoring progress. It is a completion tracking option, which is demonstrated in the video below. Additionally, Moodle Docs has a page that provides step-by-step instructions for set-up.

 

Twitter Friday Follow

Many of you have had the pleasure of working with Kit Hard (@kithard) when he worked at the RESA. UDL is one of his areas of expertise. In fact, he hosts a Twitter chat on UDL on Wednesday evenings from 9-9:30 using the hashtag #udlchat. The UDL center (@UDL_Center) referenced above is also on Twitter, participates in the #udlchat, as well as sharing lessons, support tools and more.

Library News

Freshman and sophomore English classes came to the library in celebration of Teen Read Week. While the contests were a bust (no participation, just a lot of laughter!) we did discuss the goal of reading the equivalent of 25 books a year, why it is important and spent some time looking for future independent reading project choices. Students were excited to learn that we are converting to a library learning commons and look forward to the cafe and new seating areas.

Students using their devices to search digitally for book choices

 

Looking for books the old fashioned way. Digital Natives still like print books!