Take a Universal Design for Learning (UDL) approach
Suggestion for implementing the strategy ‘Reduce barriers to learning’
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On this page:
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Go to top of current page: Use Universal Design for Learning
Go to top of current page: Use Universal Design for Learning
Benefits of UDL
Benefits of UDL
UDL is an approach to designing learning that is accessible for all learners.
Taking a UDL approach ensures that learners:
- have the tools and supports that work for them
- have equitable access to learning opportunities
- are provided with flexible options rather than a one-size-fits-all approach
- are able to adjust the content to suit their learning needs.
Source: Inclusive Education | Universal Design for Learning guide
Three UDL principles
Three UDL principles
The principles encourage proactive and intentional design focused on providing multiple ways to:
- motivate students (engagement)
- present concepts (representation)
- allow students to demonstrate their learning (action and expression).
![7158 [3-principles-of-UDL-based-on-the-work-of-CAST-Center-of-Applied-Special-Technologies.jpg]](https://inclusive-live-storagestack-assetstorages3bucket-3uty0hejzw6u.s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/public/inclusive-education/example-images/3-principles-of-UDL-based-on-the-work-of-CAST-Center-of-Applied-Special-Technologies__ScaleMaxWidthWzEwODZd.jpg)
Plan using UDL
Plan using UDL
UDL starts with what we know about the learner and the context of their learning.
Apply UDL in any context to guide your thinking and planning.
![11412 [UDL-thinking-cycle.jpeg]](https://inclusive-live-storagestack-assetstorages3bucket-3uty0hejzw6u.s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/public/inclusive-education/example-images/UDL-thinking-cycle__ScaleMaxWidthWzEwODZd.jpeg)
Consider potential barriers
Consider potential barriers
Barriers are often created when we offer single, inflexible approaches.
Consider these examples of barriers. How could you use technologies or offer a range of approaches to remove these barriers?
Knowledge of learner |
Design choice |
Potential barrier |
|
Low vision |
Paperback book |
Text cannot be enlarged |
|
Decodes text slowly |
15 minute time frame for multiple choice text |
Insufficient time to complete test |
|
Uses a wheelchair |
Class presentation on the school stage |
Steep flight of steps up to the stage |
|
Hard of hearing |
Videos without closed captions |
Unable to access content |
Source: Inclusive Education | Universal Design for Learning guide
Make tools available to all
Make tools available to all
Often tools or approaches traditionally offered to one learner can easily be made available to everyone.
This is a universal approach and the tools become optional supports for everyone.
![11415 [UDL-thinking-identify-useful-universal-supports.jpeg]](https://inclusive-live-storagestack-assetstorages3bucket-3uty0hejzw6u.s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/public/inclusive-education/example-images/UDL-thinking-identify-useful-universal-supports__ScaleMaxWidthWzEwODZd.jpeg)
Useful resources
Useful resources
Ending Streaming in Aotearoa
Read time: 20 min
Publisher: Tokona Te Raki | Māori Futures Collective
UDL and the learning brain
Read time: 5 min
A rationale for UDL based on findings from neuroscience.
Publisher: CAST
Next steps
More suggestions for implementing the strategy “Reduce barriers to learning”:
-
Current page Use Universal Design for Learning
Return to the guide “Technology tools for learning”
![11453 [Digital-technologies.jpg]](https://inclusive-live-storagestack-assetstorages3bucket-3uty0hejzw6u.s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/public/inclusive-education/guides/featured-images/Digital-technologies__FillWzIwOCwyMDhd.jpg)
How to use this site
Guide to Index of the guide: Technology tools for learning
Understand:
Strategies for action:
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Reduce barriers to learningShow suggestions for Reduce barriers to learning
- Use Universal Design for Learning
- Identify needs
- Support implementation
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Using low-technology optionsShow suggestions for Using low-technology options
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Using digital technologiesShow suggestions for Using digital technologies
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Considering Ministry of Education funded assistive technology (AT)Show suggestions for Considering Ministry of Education funded assistive technology (AT)
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Support assessment and exams, including NCEAShow suggestions for Support assessment and exams, including NCEA
