UDL for All

Daniel Crockett

EDET 735

What is Universal Design?

The term universal design does not imply one means for all. However, it does express the need for multiple approaches to meet the needs of all students. These approaches include a plan for generating flexible goals, methods, materials, and assessments that accommodate learner differences.

› CAST 2007

Where Did Universal Design Come From?

• Universal Design for Learning is an extension of an architectural movement called universal design.

Who Are We Trying to Target?

• Learning disabilities such as dyslexia

• English language barriers

• Emotional or behavioral problems

• Lack of interest or engagement

• Sensory and physical disabilities

Steps to Achieve Universal Design Inside the Classroom

Process involves five major steps including:1. Selecting a benchmark

2. Determine the goals main focus

3. Determine core and variable components

4. Identify scaffolds

5. Restate goals if necessary

eReaderseReaders provide a scaffold to slow and struggling readers. Text can

be pasted from documents or the web and pasted into a text reader.

Disabled Student

It is often difficult for disabled students to type words on a normal keyboard or even take notes. Alternative keyboards allow students a better opportunity to succed.

Tips for Designing an Accessible Website

1. The title must be descriptive and unique for each page.

2. Text must be formatted and have structure by including headings etc.

3. Images must contain alternate text descriptions.

4. Hyperlinks must make sense when read out of context.

Class Learning Profiles

It is advantageous for teachers to develop a learning profile for each of their classes. This will assist in effectively differentiating instruction for all students.

The following link will assist teachers in creating a class profile.Class Learning Profile Template

What do the Experts Say

“General curriculum must be strengthened. It must be strengthened by making it fully accessible to all students, and by including within it the research-based practices that will achieve results for students who have disabilities. Such a curriculum is universally designed.”

-David Rose

CAST Chief Ed. Officer