Making Learning Accessible With UDL - E087

This week, we are chatting all about why UDL (Universal Design For Learning) is a great approach to designing classrooms that make learning accessible for all students. We are focusing on the big picture in this episode by going over what UDL is and isn't, how it's different from choice or differentiation, and strategies/tips to begin thinking about UDL in your lesson design.If you like what you hear, we would love it if you could share this episode with a colleague or friend. And make sure you subscribe so that you don’t miss out on any new content! And consider supporting the show by buying us a coffee or two!We would love to hear from you – leave a comment on our website OR check out our FLIPGRID!Featured Content**For detailed show notes, please visit our website at https://edugals.com/87**What is UDL?Based on the premise that all students are capable of success when we provide pathways and empower them to determine what they need at any given point in timeGoal of UDL - create expert learners (purposeful and motivated, resourceful and knowledgeable, and strategic and goal-directed)Different from choice (just a piece of UDL) or differentiation (reactionary)Learner variability is the rule - a single explanation or model will not address the range of skills, abilities, language proficiencies, etc in a classroom - variability changes according to context, opportunity, etc.Lots of overlap with mastery-based learning, culturally responsive and relevant pedagogy (esp. high academic expectations), ungrading, trauma-informed pedagogy, blended instructional models3 main buckets/pillars:Multiple means of engagement - student choice, lesson relevance, motivation, self-assessment, feedbackMultiple means of representation - multiple modalities, scaffolds, visuals, cross-curricular connections, note-taking skillsMultiple means of action & expression - EdTech tools, choice for demonstrating learning, feedback, reflection (portfolios, conferencing, entrance/exit tickets)It's okay to let go of control in your classroom; focus on de-centring yourself and shifting the focus onto studentsResources:UDL Infographic from Katie NovakLearner Variability Project - Digital PromiseLearner Variability NavigatorUniversal Design for Learning (UDL): A teacher's guide UDL Guidelines from CASTUDL Progression Rubric from Katie NovakChemix Support the Show.Connect with EduGals: Twitter @EduGals Rachel @dr_r_johnson Katie @KatieAttwell EduGals Website Support the show