What is Universal Design for Learning?

As previously mentioned in the welcome post, we will first look at an educational framework known as Universal Design for Learning (UDL).  The idea behind UDL is that every child learns differently; therefore, each child must be given an equal opportunity to learn.  

So what exactly is UDL? 

According to the Center for Applied Special Technology (CAST),  which is an educational research & development organization that works to expand learning opportunities for all individuals through Universal Design for Learning, UDL is a "set of principles for curriculum development that give all individuals equal opportunities to learn."  

This "UDL At A Glance" video may also be helpful in understanding the basics of Universal Design for Learning. 

As an aspiring teacher, UDL can help me better serve my students with diverse needs.  This educational framework is a beneficial tool to add to my growing teaching toolbox!



The next blog will discuss something that every teacher should have: UDL Toolkit. The blog will discuss different tools to help educators improve and accommodate for learner differences. 

Sources:
http://www.cast.org/udl/index.html
http://www.udlcenter.org/aboutudl/udlguidelines/udlguidelines_graphicorganizer
http://at4all.pbworks.com/w/page/6252088/What%20is%20UDL
https://assistivetechnologytidbits.wikispaces.com/About+UDL
http://www.cast.org/teachingeverystudent/toolkits/tk_introduction.cfm?tk_id=21 

Welcome to my Blog!

“We are not what we know but what we are willing to learn.” 
Mary Catherine Bateson

I have created this blog to chronicle my journey of learning about Assistive Technology, with an emphasis on Universal Design for Learning (UDL) for a graduate course. As a lover of learning, it is my hope that with the knowledge gained from this class, I can be an empowered educator prepared to serve students with special education services to be successful in and out of the classroom. As an aspiring educator, I am hoping this class will help me develop a better understanding of the tools needed to guide me through the challenges that I will encounter. 

Throughout this course, I will be empowering myself through the journey of learning by using tools such as the textbook (Assistive Technology in the Classroom by Amy Dell), this blog, and communication with my peers.  I am looking forward to learning about Assistive Technology and completing this journey with my peers. 

I hope you enjoy this journey of learning!

The first blog will introduce Universal Design for Learning (UDL), which seeks to make curriculum content available to all students.  UDL will be a prominent concept discussed throughout may posts.

About Me

I'm Rosaria! I have been an all-star cheerleading coach for 9 years and I enjoy exercising and spending time with my family. I also work at my family's restaurant, which has been in business for 40 years!