Design and Deliver

Planning and Teaching Using Universal Design for Learning

Second Edition

by Loui Lord Nelson, Ph.D. The UDL Approach Indianapolis, Indiana

About the Author

Loui Lord Nelson, Ph.D., Educational Consultant and Owner, The UDL Approach,

Indianapolis, Indiana

Loui Lord Nelson is an internationally recognized leader in universal design for learning (UDL) implementation. A former special education teacher, she held the first known school district-based UDL coordinator position, completed her UDL postdoctoral fellowship at CAST (the creators of UDL), is a member of the CAST Cadre, and is part of the UDL-Implementation and Research Network (IRN) leadership council. She has worked with educators across the United States, Canada, Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia. Her publications include Design and Deliver: Planning and Teaching Using Universal Design for Learning (Paul H. Brookes Publishing, 2014), “The Role of Technology in Implementing Universal Design for Learning” (Routledge, 2017), Culturally Responsive Design for English Learners: The UDL Approach, and A Tree for All: Your Coloring Book of UDL Principles and Practice (CAST Professional Publishing, 2019). She also hosts the popular UDL in 15 Minutes podcast, heard in over 47 countries, and a new podcast, UDL Research in 15 Minutes.

Contents

1. Introducing Universal Design for Learning
   • 1.1 Introducing Universal Design for Learning
   • 1.2 The Must-Knows of the Universal Design for Learning Framework
2. The Principles of Universal Design for Learning
   • 2.1 Engagement
   • 2.2 Representation
   • 2.3 Action & Expression
3. From Planning to Practice
   • 3.1 The Learning Environment
   • 3.2 The Goal and the Lesson
4. References
5. Index

Introduction

Why Use Universal Design for Learning?

Teaching is all about diversity and having multiple approaches. Diversity is what every school presents, with a variety of learners and no overlap between them. To be successful, we must offer multiple choices and approaches.

Four Big Things

1. Think about the end result: What do you want learners to learn? How will you represent it differently? What choices will you offer?
2. Begin Slowly: Identify one guideline that resonates with you and start with that.
3. A Continual Process: Recognize that learning about UDL is ongoing.
4. Include All Learners: UDL is designed to support all learners, and it is crucial to design learning environments where everyone can participate.

Engagement

The principle of Engagement brings together affective networks that regulate our interactions. It includes options for recruiting interest, sustaining effort, and self-regulation.

Representation

The principle of Representation focuses on recognition networks that help learners identify and interpret sensory input. It includes options for perception, language & symbols, and comprehension.

Action & Expression

The principle of Action & Expression relates to strategic networks. It involves guiding how learners express what they know through various means such as physical action and communication.

Reflecting on Lessons

Teachings should reflect on what worked and what didn't. Use the UDL framework to guide these reflections and improve future lessons. For example, a teacher might evaluate a lesson's success based on student engagement and understanding.

Design with UDL

When designing lessons using UDL, consider tools, resources, and strategies in a way that is intentional and connected to the goals of the lesson. UDL prompts educators to recognize the unique needs of their learners and design activities that are accessible to all.

Professional Learning Communities (PLCs)

Collaborating with peers in PLCs enhances understanding and implementation of UDL. Group discussions can lead to deeper insights and improved educational practices.