Universal Design for Learning
Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is a framework to improve and optimize teaching and learning for
ALL learners. At the core, UDL is rooted in neuroscience. Research shows that learning occurs in
three brain networks - the Affective Network, Recognition Network, and Strategic Network. Evidence supports that learners are diverse, and that learner variability is the norm and can change across contexts. Evidence also supports that barriers within learning environments can interfere with or interrupt the learning process.
Educators with a UDL mindset apply design principles to make learning accessible and beneficial to all learners. To ensure learners have equitable access to the same rigorous learning goals, educators are empowered to:
- Embrace learner variability
- Intentionally predict and remove barriers within the learning environment
- Provide flexibility within the learning process
The UDL Guidelines from CAST are a tool for educators to use in the design phase of teaching and learning. By utilizing these guidelines, educators can proactively plan for learning opportunities to address barriers and maximize learner access; with the ultimate goal of creating expert learners who are purposeful & motivated, resourceful & knowledgeable, and strategic & goal-directed.
Upcoming Events:
Introduction to Universal Design for Learning: The Why, the What, and the How Online Course - 2022 - 2023 - Register Now!
This self-paced, online course provides participants with an introduction to Universal Design for Learning (UDL) by exploring the Why, the What, and the How of UDL. Through the course lessons and activities, participants will learn how to develop clear goals, recognize obstacles in the learning environment, and utilize the UDL guidelines to meet individual needs in pursuit of expert learning.
UDL: Classroom Resources Grant
This series is designed for the Local Education Agencies (LEAs) that were awarded Universal Design for Learning (UDL) Classroom Resources Grants from the PA Department of Education, Bureau of Special Education. The ultimate goal of this series is to equip educators with resources to reduce the inherent barriers to learning so all students may reach their full learning potential independent of how instruction is delivered during the 2021-2022 school year.
Congratulations to this year’s grantees:
- Connellsville Area School District
- South Park School District
- Seneca Valley School District
- Mohawk Area School District
- Slippery Rock Area School District
- Union School District
- Greensburg Salem School District
- Southmoreland School District
- Cocalico School District
- Scranton School District
- Old Forge School District
- Pennsbury School District
- North Penn School District
- Philadelphia Charter School for the Arts and Sciences
- Global Leadership Academy
UDL: Optimizing Implementation Grant
This series is designed for the Local Education Agencies (LEAs) that were awarded Universal Design for Learning (UDL) Optimizing Implementation Grants from the PA Department of Education, Bureau of Special Education. The ultimate goal is to enhance the LEAs’ use of UDL methodologies across all stakeholders (staff, student, family, administrator) through customized coaching and technical assistance resulting in a more robust continuum of services and improved least restrictive environment (LRE) outcomes for students with disabilities.
Congratulations to this year’s grantees:
- California Area School District
- Susquehanna Township School District
- Lehigh Valley Charter High School for the Arts
- Achievement House Cyber Charter School