Universal Design for Learning (UDL) has gained popularity as an approach to teaching where teachers design instruction that meets the specific needs of a few, but still benefits all. There is a lot of theory behind UDL and the reasoning for taking this approach is sound. But what does a UDL classroom actually look like? Unless you’ve seen it in action or use it yourself, it can be hard to picture. Here are some of the most effective ways to incorporate the principles of UDL into any classroom.
1. Individualized, Student-Written Goals
UDL is all about involving students in their learning process. This doesn’t mean they make all the decisions. It means they have some ownership over their learning. Developing goals with students is an excellent way to empower them and help guide them toward improvement. Communicating lesson goals with students helps them know what they are working towards. Individualizing these goals helps ensure that students are working on what they need, not just what the curriculum dictates.
2. Assignment Options
Responsive teachers know that a one-size-fits-all approach to teaching doesn’t work. When there is only one path to learning, there will always be one or more students who are unsuccessful on that path. When teachers provide multiple options for demonstrating student learning, they are addressing everyone’s needs, interests, and learning style. This could be as simple as providing end-of-unit options for students to write a paper, give an oral presentation, or create a poster to demonstrate their learning.
3. Flexible Seating
Not every student learns best sitting up at a desk. Some do their best thinking standing up. Some prefer to sit on the floor with their back supported by a wall. Others may even prefer to pace. While it is unfeasible (and not always safe) to allow every student their preference all the time, the traditional model of desks in rows with students sitting up tall isn’t the answer to academic success. Providing students with options for where and how to work ensures their physical and environmental needs and preferences are being taken into account. This doesn’t mean a free-for-all. Students can have options within a structured, rule-based classroom in which everyone is still being safe while also meeting their needs.
4. Multisensory Stations
Multisensory stations are an excellent way to incorporate UDL into any classroom. Since multisensory stations incorporate many different learning styles, all students are guaranteed to get something out of the lesson/activity. Multisensory stations can be used in virtually any subject at any grade level, from manipulatives for practicing spelling, to applying concepts in a science lab. Here’s an example: in a math classroom, students are practicing place value. One station is set up with partner word problems. Another station has students using base 10 blocks to model various equations. A third station provides students with independent practice that allows them to draw, write, or use manipulatives to solve problems.
5. Varied Methods of Interacting with Text
While all students need to learn how to read, this doesn’t mean all students need to interact with their books in the same way. Some students benefit tremendously from literacy tools like audiobooks and adaptive text. Contrary to popular belief, audiobooks do not prevent students from learning how to read. In fact, research has shown that audiobooks can actually help struggling readers develop their reading skills. UDL classrooms provide texts in old-fashioned paperback form, digital form, and audiobook form. Students also have options for how they practice active reading, like using post-its to write down their responses or having opportunities to “book talk” with a partner.
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