Universal Design of Learning

For a quick concept map of the Universal Design of Learning (UDL), take a look at the diagram I created in Inspiration. Click on the image for a bigger version.

The technology we have been discussing and implementing this summer semester truly incorporates the principles of UDL to make education accessible to all types of learners. The added value of programs like Inspiration, blogging, Google documents, digital projects (like the Tableau Vivant) makes learning much more interactive and student-focused. As we continue to learn new ways of presenting and approaching material in the classroom, I keep thinking of new ways that I can make learning more exciting and engaging for students.

The added value of technology affects almost every task that a student would undertake. Technology allows flexibility in presentation- opening up multi-sensory approaches to material, mining an abundance of relevant material, and incorporating a variety of learning styles in the classroom. Technology allows for flexibility in engaging students- allowing them to self-pace their lessons, practice on their own to develop skills, and organize information in a format that best suits them. Finally, technology allows for flexibility in assessment- allowing students to undertake a variety of projects and tailor them to their own specific interests and abilities.

As I keep learning how easy it is to incorporate technology, I know I will be eager to use it in the classroom to make my lessons more relevant and collaborative. In an ever-growing digital age, it is important for educators and students to learn new technologies that will help them become life-long learners and miners of information.