Lesson:
The concept of Universal design for learning is originally based on universal design in architecture. The aim of UD is to provide products and environments that could be accessible to individuals with disabilities. Curb cuts in sidewalks and ramps were built to reduce barriers and provide easier accessibility for people with disabilities. Universal design for learning takes that initial premise and applies it to curricula development. School districts can develop curriculum designed to be accessible to all types of learners. The principles of UDL are rooted in neuroscience research that identifies three primary brain networks; recognition, strategic, and affective. Research illustrates how learners are unique and therefore have different requirements and ways of approaching content (National Center on Universal Design for Learning, 2014). UDL essentially, provides the framework where learners are supported (through learner autonomy) in mapping their own way to the material.
UDL Principles
I. Provide Multiple Means of Representation
II. Provide Multiple Means of Action and Expression
III. Provide Multiple Means of Engagement
These three principles are based on neuroscience research that identify the following three primary brain networks.
The concept of Universal design for learning is originally based on universal design in architecture. The aim of UD is to provide products and environments that could be accessible to individuals with disabilities. Curb cuts in sidewalks and ramps were built to reduce barriers and provide easier accessibility for people with disabilities. Universal design for learning takes that initial premise and applies it to curricula development. School districts can develop curriculum designed to be accessible to all types of learners. The principles of UDL are rooted in neuroscience research that identifies three primary brain networks; recognition, strategic, and affective. Research illustrates how learners are unique and therefore have different requirements and ways of approaching content (National Center on Universal Design for Learning, 2014). UDL essentially, provides the framework where learners are supported (through learner autonomy) in mapping their own way to the material.
UDL Principles
I. Provide Multiple Means of Representation
II. Provide Multiple Means of Action and Expression
III. Provide Multiple Means of Engagement
These three principles are based on neuroscience research that identify the following three primary brain networks.
The three key principles; multiple means of representation, of action and expression, and means of engagement are a set of instructional practices to guide teachers in the design of learning environments. The three principles of UDL are directly correlated to the three primary brain networks responsible for learning. These three key principles provide the foundation for curriculum design that has the locus of control on the learner as opposed to the traditional model where the teacher is the locus of control. In short, the learner controls the “what’s”, “how’s”, and “why’s of their learning and understanding of content (CAST, 2013). The means or “tools” by which bring about their individual knowledge acquisition are directed by personal interests and choices based on their unique learning styles.
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