In my first post I introduced myself to you as a college student. I began this blog for an Assistive Technology class I am currently enrolled in. Our first assignment was to look over a website and find out about UDL and what it is. I want to share my findings with you. UDL or Universal Design for Learning, is a way to help meet the needs of the challenge of diversity by suggesting flexible instructional materials. There are three items Universal Design for Learning calls for; Multiple means of representation: give learners an assortment of ways to acquire information and knowledge, Multiple means of expression: provide learners alternative ways for demonstrating what they know, Multiple means of engagement: tap into learners' interests, offer appropriate challenges, and increase motivation.

Not all students learn the same way. They need the material presented to them in a different way. Some students may learn better visually, by auditory, or by hands on approaches. Teacher's need to first observe and listen to their students about how they best learn. Then the teacher can implement that into his or her lessons. The students also need to express their learning in their own ways how they feel most comfortable or how they are able to express. They can do this by podcasts, and talking word processors.  

Right now differentiation is big in all schools because it is important to meet the needs of all the students. Reading the ways to implement UDL (which are ways to differentiate) were really helpful and eye opening to me. There were some ideas and ways to help students learn that I had never thought of. I am excited to become a teacher and be able to implement these ideas in my own classroom. UDL is an important aspect of teaching. 

Here is the website if you want to learn more!

http://udl.wiki.ciu20.org/home