Universal Design for Learning is described as a set of principles for curriculum development that give all individuals equal opportunities to learn (CAST.org, 2009). For most students this looks like a typical classroom and not many accommodations are needed for students to reach the objective of a lesson. For others, they need resources just to begin learning or understanding the objective of the lesson. In other words before students can even begin to think or understand the material all of their needs must be meant. Maslow's hierarchy of needs describes how students need basic things such as food, health, etc. to even begin learning. This same theory is true when in a classroom. Imagine a teacher asking you to describe the characters in the story and you can't read the words. Not only are you not able to make connections to comprehend the character’s feelings and why, but you haven't been able to see a single word in the book. In order to help students begin on a more level playing field teachers must use resources outside of themselves to gain students attention and help accommodate their needs.
UDL Checkpoint 1.2 Alternatives for Audio
Signed Stories
www.signedstories.com
Stories are told by actors using sign language for students with auditory disabilities.
UDL Checkpoint 3.1 Activating Background Knowledge
Exploratorium After School Activities
www.exploratorium.com
This website can be used to spark students interest in learning about a new topic such as weather or magnets.
UDL Checkpoint 5.3 Support for Practice and Performance
Earobics Game Goo
www.earobics.com
This website has games to practice literacy strategies.
If you would to find more resources like the website I listed above follow the link below!
UDL Resources
Exploratorium.com was such an awesome resource to incorporate UDL into the classroom. There were so many different topics for students to explore and the visuals were very engaging. There were also activities suitable for different grade levels. Under "educators" I liked how there were many resources for teachers to incorporate the activities in their classrooms. The "snack" section was really cool because it shows you how to create mini versions of the most popular exhibitions in your classroom!
ReplyDeleteAs a pre-educator, I don't have much experience with students with disabilities. Hearing your thoughts about UDL, in relation to a student who cannot read was really eye opening! Also, your personal connections to the topic made this blog really engaging for me to read! Additionally, I also really liked the "signed stores" link you provided! If I ever encountered a student in my future classroom who was deaf, this resource would be a great way for that student to be able to enjoy a story!
ReplyDeleteThanks for providing this websites-they are extremely helpful. I can see using these in my future classroom, especially for the younger students. Each link provided materials that can used in the classroom for students with different disabilities. Like, Kate the educators section is going to very so helpful when you are looking for activities for your classroom. Knowing that there is a website directly for this is going to create a positive caring environment with less stress.
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