Learners are highly variable in the way they learn and interact within learning environments. Unfortunately, not all learning environments and lessons work for our students because many are designed to provide a one-size-fits-all approach to learning. When we teach toward an "average student" (which doesn't exist), we can unintentionally create barriers in the learning environment and learning process.
The Universal Design for Learning (UDL) framework is a research-based method of designing accessible lessons and learning environments for all students. Although students are highly variable, all students need flexible options for:
- Representing content
- Demonstrating understanding (Action & Expression)
- Engagement
Creating access begins with effective design and accessible tools. I recently came across an AMAZING website called Accommodations for All Learners that is dedicated to sharing tools and resources to make learning accessible for all learners.
The website is filled with amazing resources and ideas for designing accessible learning experiences through technology. Here are some of my favorites!
- The graphic organizer section is filled with ready-to-use graphic organizers for learning!
- The manipulatives section has an entire Symbaloo dedicated to elementary math manipulatives!
- Not familiar with Accessibility Tools? This section has awesome information on how to incorporate accessibility tools into the classroom.
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