All students learn differently.  There is no “one size fits all” option for classroom instruction.  How can a teacher meet the needs of all students in a classroom?

Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is a set of principles for curriculum development that gives all individuals equal opportunities to learn.  The goal of UDL is to provide instruction that accommodates the widest spectrum of learners with minimal need for subsequent adaptations.  Universal Design for Learning includes three primary brain networks (CAST 2011).
 
Recognition Network: The “What” of Learning
Presenting content in multiple ways allows teachers to design learning experiences that are flexible enough to reach a variety of learners.

 

• Content should be presented in a variety of ways.
• Offer opportunities for visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learning.
• Plan learning activities that allow students to use all of their senses.

Strategic Network: The “How” of Learning
Providing multiple means of action and expression allows students to make connections to material and successfully share what they have learned.

 

• Differentiate the ways that students can express what they know.
• Provide options for students to share what they have learned.

Affective Network: The “Why” of Learning
Providing multiple means of engagement ensures that a wide variety of students in your classroom will each find motivation to maintain attention to lessons

 

• Stimulate interest and motivation for learning.
• Help foster a Growth Mindset in your students.

Resources:
CAST UDL Overview Video: http://www.cast.org/our-work/about-udl.html#.WDNPpU3ruUk
UDL Guidelines: http://www.udlcenter.org/sites/udlcenter.org/files/updateguidelines2_0.pdf

References:
CAST (2011). Universal design for learning guidelines version 2.0. Wakefield,MA:Author
Retrieved Nov. 28, 2016 from http://www.udlcenter.org/aboutudl/udlguidelines

National Center on Intensive Intervention (2013) Handout: Think-Tac-Toe.
Retrieved 11/29/16 from http://www.intensiveintervention.org/sites/default/files/Handout3_Think-Tac-Toe.pdf