UDL - Universal Design for Learning

"Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is a framework for planning inclusive classrooms. Inclusive education has several goals:

> Deep, creative, critical thinkers

> Self-motivated, self-disciplined learners

> Self-aware, confident students

> Compassionate, cooperative leaders and

> Community members with the skills and understandings to work with and relate to diverse others (Dr. Jennifer Katz, 2012)

UDL proposes to accomplish these goals by creating welcoming, emotionally safe classrooms. All children can recognize that everyone has unique ways of being smart, and that living in community means using our talents to support one another.

UDL makes schools academically inclusive by helping teachers plan instruction so that all learners can participate at their own level, whether that is introductory or challenging. In practice, this means classrooms from grade K-12 will involve learning in many ways – through movement, art, music, literature, and nature – and students have the opportunity to show what they know in ways that fit their strengths."

Thank you Deborah for your insight on UDL and inclusion!