UDL 101
Start writing a post
Student Life

UDL 101

The Basics of Universal Design for Learning

164
UDL 101
Compendian

UDL 101: The basics of Universal Design for Learning. Universal Design for Learning is a framework for designing and delivering instruction. UDL is based on the three networks of the brain associated with learning: the Recognition Network, the Strategic Network, and the Affective Network (CAST 2012).

Learning is not something an individual does. Learning is not "sitting still, paying attention, and inputting information." Modern neuroscience now reveals to us that "learning occurs in a dynamic interaction between student and learning environment, and that the learning environment — or context — is itself complex and dynamic (Meyer, Rose, & Rose pg.11). Universal Design for Learning is a framework that allows one to consider this interaction, account for student variability, and remove barriers to learning in the the learning environment.

The framework of UDL is comprised of three principles based on the networks of the brain associated with learning: representation or the what of learning, action and expression or the how of learning and engagement or the why of learning (CAST 2012). There are nine subsequent guidelines organized around the three principle of UDL: (I) Provide multiple means of representation; (II) provide multiple means of action and expression; and (III) provide multiple means of engagement” (Rose & Meyer, 2002).

Let's deconstruct them a bit!

The principle of representation or the what of learning based on the recognition network is where students need to be given learning opportunities to be knowledgeable and resourceful learners. Here the educator can employ the principle of representation and examine and evaluate the curriculum and learning environment in order to provide students with options for perception, options for language, mathematical expressions, & symbols, and options for perception.

The principle of action and expression or the how of learning based on the strategic network is where students need to be given learning experiences where they can become strategic and goal-directed learners. Here the educator can utilize the principle of action and expression to design learning that provides options for physical action, options for expression and communication and options for executive function.

Finally, the principle of engagement or the why of learning based on the affective network is where students need learning environments that provide them with support and opportunities to be purposeful and motivated learners. Here the educator can better attend to the dynamic interaction between the learner and the context of the learning environment by providing options for recruiting interest, options for sustaining effort and persistence and options for self-regulation. CAST's guidelines and principles are depicted in the figure below as well.


CAST, Inc. (2012) Retrieved from: http://www.udlcenter.org/aboutudl/whatisudl

Meyer, A., Rose, H. D., Gordon, D. (2014). Universal design for learning, theory andpractice. Wakefield, MA: CAST Professional Publishing.

Rose, D., & Meyer, A. (2002) Teaching every student in the digital age: universal design for learning. Alexandrea, VA: Association of Supervision and Curriculum Development.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
the beatles
Wikipedia Commons

For as long as I can remember, I have been listening to The Beatles. Every year, my mom would appropriately blast “Birthday” on anyone’s birthday. I knew all of the words to “Back In The U.S.S.R” by the time I was 5 (Even though I had no idea what or where the U.S.S.R was). I grew up with John, Paul, George, and Ringo instead Justin, JC, Joey, Chris and Lance (I had to google N*SYNC to remember their names). The highlight of my short life was Paul McCartney in concert twice. I’m not someone to “fangirl” but those days I fangirled hard. The music of The Beatles has gotten me through everything. Their songs have brought me more joy, peace, and comfort. I can listen to them in any situation and find what I need. Here are the best lyrics from The Beatles for every and any occasion.

Keep Reading...Show less
Being Invisible The Best Super Power

The best superpower ever? Being invisible of course. Imagine just being able to go from seen to unseen on a dime. Who wouldn't want to have the opportunity to be invisible? Superman and Batman have nothing on being invisible with their superhero abilities. Here are some things that you could do while being invisible, because being invisible can benefit your social life too.

Keep Reading...Show less
Featured

19 Lessons I'll Never Forget from Growing Up In a Small Town

There have been many lessons learned.

70848
houses under green sky
Photo by Alev Takil on Unsplash

Small towns certainly have their pros and cons. Many people who grow up in small towns find themselves counting the days until they get to escape their roots and plant new ones in bigger, "better" places. And that's fine. I'd be lying if I said I hadn't thought those same thoughts before too. We all have, but they say it's important to remember where you came from. When I think about where I come from, I can't help having an overwhelming feeling of gratitude for my roots. Being from a small town has taught me so many important lessons that I will carry with me for the rest of my life.

Keep Reading...Show less
​a woman sitting at a table having a coffee
nappy.co

I can't say "thank you" enough to express how grateful I am for you coming into my life. You have made such a huge impact on my life. I would not be the person I am today without you and I know that you will keep inspiring me to become an even better version of myself.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

Waitlisted for a College Class? Here's What to Do!

Dealing with the inevitable realities of college life.

132443
college students waiting in a long line in the hallway
StableDiffusion

Course registration at college can be a big hassle and is almost never talked about. Classes you want to take fill up before you get a chance to register. You might change your mind about a class you want to take and must struggle to find another class to fit in the same time period. You also have to make sure no classes clash by time. Like I said, it's a big hassle.

This semester, I was waitlisted for two classes. Most people in this situation, especially first years, freak out because they don't know what to do. Here is what you should do when this happens.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments