Universal Design for Learning
Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is a framework for guiding educational practice. It provides flexibility in the way information is presented, how students respond or demonstrate knowledge and skills, and how students are engaged. For all students, including students with disabilities and students who are limited English proficient, UDL:
- Reduces barriers in instruction
- Provides appropriate accommodations, supports, and challenges
- Maintains high achievement expectations
UDL tools support everyone, regardless of their experience or ability. This includes general education students, special education students and English language learners. UDL tools help reduce barriers by providing multiple ways for students to respond to, engage with and access educational materials.
If a student with a disability requires the UDL tool to access their education, then the tool is considered assistive technology. When teachers use UDL tools successfully, it facilitates acceptance and integration of technology used by people with disabilities.
Universal Design for Learning
Recognition Networks
The "what" of learning
How we gather facts and categorize what we see, hear and read. Identifying letters, words or an author's style are recognition tasks.
 Present information and content in different waysMore ways to provide Multiple Means of Representation |
Strategic Networks
The "how" of learning
Planning and performing tasks. How we organize and express our ideas. Writing an essay or solving a math problem are strategic tasks.
| Differentiate the ways that students can express what they know More ways to provide Multiple Means of Action and Expression |
Affective Networks
The "why" of learning
How learners get engaged and stay motivated. How they are challenged, excited or interested. These are affective dimensions.
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