Classroom Goals and Expectations
Our classroom environment is accepting of all students and celebrates diversity.
In my classroom, I utilize strategies of the Universal Design for Learning:
Universal Design for Learning is a framework for teaching and learning that maximizes learning and minimizes barriers within the curriculum. It answers the question of how to meet the needs of the widest range of students. The way students learn is as unique as their fingerprints and by allowing for flexibility, providing support, accommodating and challenging the students, they can all engage in learning regardless of any disability. This type of learning environment encourages students to explore the content based on personal interests, preferences, or abilities.
In my classroom, I utilize strategies of the Universal Design for Learning:
Universal Design for Learning is a framework for teaching and learning that maximizes learning and minimizes barriers within the curriculum. It answers the question of how to meet the needs of the widest range of students. The way students learn is as unique as their fingerprints and by allowing for flexibility, providing support, accommodating and challenging the students, they can all engage in learning regardless of any disability. This type of learning environment encourages students to explore the content based on personal interests, preferences, or abilities.
To implement the principles of Universal Design for Learning, we need to provide multiple means of representation. By presenting information and course content in multiple formats, all students can access it.
Next, we need to allow students alternatives to express or demonstrate their learning. Students should reflect the learning goals and not be held back due to any disability.
Finally, students should be given options that encourage collaboration and communication. Stimulating students’ interests and motivation for learning in a variety of ways will promote lifelong learners and connections with the material.
Next, we need to allow students alternatives to express or demonstrate their learning. Students should reflect the learning goals and not be held back due to any disability.
Finally, students should be given options that encourage collaboration and communication. Stimulating students’ interests and motivation for learning in a variety of ways will promote lifelong learners and connections with the material.
By utilizing these strategies, we can minimize barriers caused by the curriculum, maximize learning and enhance technological skills. Students learn in diverse ways and by providing alternatives for accessing information (ex: auditory, visual, kinesthetic, and tactile) we can maximize learning opportunities. Some examples of implementing UDL principles in the classroom include: providing or activating background knowledge in multiple ways, providing options for responding (ex: using a keyboard instead of pen and paper), providing options for completing assignments using different media (text, speech, film, music), providing options that increase the relevance and authenticity of instructional activities (culturally significant activities).
