Universal Design for Learning (UDL) Toolkit

Universal Design for Learning (UDL) Toolkit

BACKGROUND: Universal design for learning (UDL) is an educational framework and set of principles to provide ALL students equal opportunities to learn. Using UDL principles in general education and special education classrooms makes curriculum accessible. Learning is supported; students gain knowledge, skills, and enthusiasm for learning; and their learning is validly assessed.

Using the following three principles, UDL embeds flexibility into the components of the curriculum: goals, teaching methods, instructional materials and assessments.

1. Provide multiple and flexible methods of presentation to give students various ways of acquiring information and knowledge.

2. Provide multiple and flexible means of expression to provide students with alternatives for demonstrating what they have learned, and

3. Provide multiple and flexible means of engagement to tap into learners' interests, challenge them appropriately, and motivate them to learn.

UDL TOOLKIT: The U.S. Department of Education Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP) has published a toolkit of information and resources that will help policymakers, education personnel and parents understand how to implement UDL strategies and practices. This toolkit is available here and CDs will be available shortly through ED Pubs.