Universal Design
Principles of Universal Design Universal design is the design of products and environments to be usable by all people, to the greatest extent possible, without the need for adaptation or specialized design. Universal Design for Learning is a set of principles for curriculum development that give all individuals equal opportunities to learn. UDL provides a blueprint for creating instructional goals, methods, materials, and assessments that work for everyone--not a single, one-size-fits-all solution but rather flexible approaches that can be customized and adjusted for individual needs. Good for all students: General instructional strategies based on the principles of Universal Design for instruction. Syllabus define essential components of the class clearly written class expectations your contact information grading scale disability accommodation statement attendance, tardiness, participation, and late work policies Consistency organize class and give simple directions in predictable format follow routine post daily agenda be consistent with expectations and due dates Technology use technology to enhance instruction and increase accessibility provide all text and handouts in electronic format post oral directions in written/electronic format design handouts and slides so user can easily change font/spacing/color/size/background or remove graphics that may be distracting Summarize information at end of major topic, summarize main ideas arrange information consistent with its importance, distinguish "essential to know" information from "nice to know" information Created/Adapted by Kristina Stellpflug 12.11.14 1 Assignments/Projects/Tests/Quizzes provide effective prompting and feedback during and after task completion use grading rubric use varied testing format consider designing tests to cover smaller rather than larger amounts of information consider breaking longer more complex assignments into smaller segments allow for a variety of ways students demonstrate knowledge; allow them to express themselves in a manner that is consistent with the way they learn clearly state rules for homework, including homework due dates Learning Style use different modes (pictorial, verbal, hands-on) when presenting information design classroom activities that allow for movement, discussion, questions, demonstration, and/or group work use circular seating reduce distraction noises allow time for formulating questions or responses change activities; mix fine motor and gross motor skills References/Resources: http://www.udlcenter.org/aboutudl/whatisudl http://accessproject.colostate.edu/udl/ http://mywtcs.wtcsystem.edu/instruction-student-services/student-supportservices/disability-services Created/Adapted by Kristina Stellpflug 12.11.14 1
