Universal Design for Learning (UDL) tries to meet the needs of all students. UDL understands that all students are different and learn in their own unique ways. UDL lessons are designed to be flexible and customizable to meet students’ skills, needs, and interests. UDL also tries to target the three primary brain networks; recognition, strategic, and affective. Recognition networks are how our brains gather and categorize information (Cast.org , 2009). To meet these needs it is best to present the information in multiple ways and in different formats (Rose & Meyer, 2002, Chap. 6). Strategic networks affect how students plan and perform assignments and how they organize and express their ideas (Cast.org , 2009). Strategic assignments should be differentiated, with multiple opportunities for practice, and ongoing feedback (Rose & Meyer, 2002, Chap. 6). Affective networks deal with how students become engaged, challenged, interested, and motivated (Cast.org , 2009). Activities for affective networks should offer a choice of content and tools. In addition, they should have different levels of challenge and choices of learning context (Rose & Meyer, 2002, Chap. 6).
The UDL lesson I created was targeted toward higher achieving students. The lesson tried to meet those students’ needs by putting background information in context and providing multiple examples and media formats for new information. Students are given opportunities to practice skills and demonstrate knowledge. They will also receive ongoing feedback. Students are also given the choice of content they want to research and tools for research and delivery of their assignments. The UDL format is a valuable teaching tool that can be used to strengthen every teacher’s classroom practices.
Cast.org (2009). Model UDL lessons. Center for Applied Special Technology. Retrieved on March 17, 2012 from http://udlselfcheck.cast.org/
Rose, D., & Meyer, A. (2002).Teaching every student in the digital age: Universal design for learning. Alexandria, VA: Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development. Available online at the Center for Applied Special Technology Web site. Chapter 6. Retrieved on March 12, 2012 from http://www.cast.org/teachingeverystudent/ideas/tes/
No comments:
Post a Comment