Learner variability matters
An introduction to UDL and its value in an Aotearoa New Zealand context.
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The learning brain
The learning brain
How these networks interconnect and act together is unique for each of us.
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There is no average brain
There is no average brain
“Variability is the dominant feature of the nervous system. Like fingerprints, no two brains are alike”.
![11395 [dt-180719-brain-fingerprint-800x600.jpg]](https://inclusive-live-storagestack-assetstorages3bucket-3uty0hejzw6u.s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/public/inclusive-education/example-images/dt-180719-brain-fingerprint-800x600__ScaleMaxWidthWzEwODZd.jpg)
What is learner variability?
What is learner variability?
Learner variability is a fundamental premise of UDL.
Findings from neuroscience indicate that each human brain learns using three primary networks in the brain.
- Our affective networks influence our emotions and motivations.
- Our recognition networks influence what we perceive and understand through our senses and
- Our strategic networks influence how we organise and communicate our thinking.
These networks make unique interconnections influenced by:
- the context in which learning happens
- our emotional state
- our experiences, background knowledge, interests and abilities.
This combination makes learning highly variable.
Why learner variability matters
Why learner variability matters
Dr Todd Rose, Harvard University, talks about why planning for variability is critical.
Closed Captions
Reflection questions
Reflection questions
- Discuss how you plan for variability in other contexts. Think about planning a meal for a group of people you don't know. What variability would you expect and how would you plan for it? Could this approach translate to teaching and learning?
- Reflect on Todd Rose’s story about the implications of giving everyone the same sized shoes? In what ways might this relate to teaching and learning?
Source: Adapted from Universal design for learning: Theory and practice (opens in a new tab/window)
Useful resources
Useful resources
UDL and the learning brain
Read time: 5 min
A rationale for UDL based on findings from neuroscience.
Publisher: CAST
Level up your inclusive practice
Read time: 5 min
A blog post about planning for learner variability.
Research@Work: Embracing Learner Variability in Schools
Read time: 2 min
In this video, David Rose discusses the importance of providing learning supports and structures that are tailored to students’ individual needs and abilities. He shares his vision for “de-standardizing” education to help students discover their strengths and become expert learners.
Publisher: Digital Promise
Next steps
More suggestions for implementing the strategy “Find out about UDL”:
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Current page Learner variability
Return to the guide “Universal Design for Learning”
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How to use this site
Guide to Index of the guide: Universal Design for Learning
Understand:
- Why UDL is valuable
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Find out about UDLShow suggestions for Find out about UDL
Strategies for action:
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Provide multiple means of EngagementShow suggestions for Provide multiple means of Engagement
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Provide multiple means of RepresentationShow suggestions for Provide multiple means of Representation
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Provide multiple means of Action and ExpressionShow suggestions for Provide multiple means of Action and Expression
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How to plan using UDLShow suggestions for How to plan using UDL
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Design considerations in primary settingsShow suggestions for Design considerations in primary settings
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Design considerations in secondary settingsShow suggestions for Design considerations in secondary settings
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Design considerations in NCEA assessmentsShow suggestions for Design considerations in NCEA assessments
