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Welcome! Here you will find resources for Universal Design Learning! Along with hopefully gaining an understanding of the principles that make UDL so important. I will additionally provide resources for Assistive Technology for reading, writing, and AAC/communication. Enjoy!

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UDL Elevator Speech

https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://youtube.com/shorts/l49anMvSWPQ?feature=share__;!!JYXjzlvb!hKmz5maN-hr-YdtvCR5qjfCy39HINsc_4IkXqgkD72Oqwk5TrsES33q3YuWaId-drzok8V_XAuiE6XlhxO7eb11Nchl2Q-J4VA$

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What is Universal Design Learning?

Universal Design Learning is an educational framework that works to meet the diverse needs of all students by providing them with flexible opportunities. This concept is grounded in research that shows neuroplasticity is a key concept that explains how the brain adapts and changes in response to learning experiences and the environment in which it is being taught. This refers to how the brain is able to reorganize itself by making neural connections throughout our life.  Using UDL to create lesson plans we are able to create new connections within the brain through methods that resonate with those neural connections and make stronger connections to the coursework. By using UDL principles in a lesson plan, educators can create a more inclusive environment where students have multiple ways to engage with content and express their understanding.

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Multiple Means of Representation

What does this mean?

Multiple Means of Representation refers to the principle of providing students with various ways to access and understand the content being taught. UDL emphasizes that learners have diverse ways of processing information, and not all students learn best through the same method. By offering multiple forms of representation, teachers ensure that all students, regardless of their learning styles, abilities, or needs, can engage with and comprehend the material.

Resources:

Text-Speech

Read&Write: Read&Write For Education - Reading, Literacy & Assistive Software | Texthelp

Interactive Whiteboards

Google Jamboard: Collaborative Digital Whiteboard | Google Workspace for Education - Google for Education

Multimedia Presentations

Adobe Spark

Educational Apps/Simulations

GeoGebra - the world’s favorite, free math tools used by over 100 million students and teachers

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Multiple Means of Action and Expression

What does this mean?

Multiple Means of Action and Expression in UDL refers to offering a variety of methods for students to demonstrate their learning, process information, and engage with tasks. This principle recognizes that students have different abilities, preferences, and needs when it comes to how they perform actions (e.g., answering questions, creating projects) and how they express their understanding of content (e.g., through writing, speaking, or using technology).

Digital Drawing and Design Tools

Tinkercad - From mind to design in minutes

Interactive Learning Platforms

Kahoot!

Physical Interaction

Online Eye Tracking | Webcam eye-tracking software

Voice to Text

Setting Up and Using Voice Typing in Google Docs - Google Docs

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Multiple Means of Engagement

What does this mean?

Refers to providing students with various options and strategies to engage with the learning material, maintain motivation, and actively participate in the learning process. It focuses on fostering sustained interest, persistence, and effort by offering choices and opportunities for students to connect with the content in a way that resonates with them personally.

FlipGrid

https://youtu.be/kR1FxImNPSs

Seesaw

Blooket

Using Google Classroom provides an opportunity for students interact with coursework in multiple ways

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What is Assistive Technology?

Assistive Technology (AT) refers to any device, system, or software that is designed to help individuals with disabilities perform tasks that might otherwise be difficult or impossible for them to accomplish. The goal of assistive technology is to enhance the functional capabilities of individuals, enabling them to access and interact with educational content, work environments, or daily life activities more effectively and independently.

Key Features of Assistive Technology:

1. Devices or Tools: These can range from simple tools (e.g., a pencil grip) to complex devices (e.g., a screen reader or communication board).

2. Software Solutions: Software like speech-to-text programs, screen readers, or captioning tools that help individuals access information.

3. Adaptations: Modifications to existing devices or systems, such as adaptive keyboards, custom switches, or special mouse designs that make technology usable for individuals with specific needs.

4. Educational Focus: In educational settings, assistive technology can include tools like audiobooks, text-to-speech software, or augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices that help students with disabilities access the curriculum and demonstrate their learning.

Examples of Assistive Technology:

Screen readers (e.g., JAWS, NVDA) for individuals with visual impairments.

Speech-to-text software (e.g., Dragon NaturallySpeaking) for individuals with physical disabilities or those who struggle with writing.

Hearing aids or FM systems for individuals with hearing impairments.

Switch devices for individuals with motor disabilities, allowing them to interact with computers or other devices.

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices, like communication boards or apps (e.g., Proloquo2Go), for individuals with speech or communication difficulties.

In summary, assistive technology helps individuals overcome barriers related to physical, cognitive, or sensory disabilities, promoting independence and equal access to education, work, and other life activities.

Here are some resources to help!

ATU389 – Mike Marotta ATP | Assistive Technology at Easter Seals Crossroads

AT Resources - Assistive Technology Industry Association

Resources - Quality Indicators for Assistive Technology Services

Idaho Assistive Technology Project

Idaho Assistive Technology for All

15 Assistive Technology Tools For Students With Disabilities

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Assistive Technologies for Writing

Here are some Resources!

ProloQuo2Go

Proloquo2Go - AAC app with symbols - AssistiveWare

JAWS

freedomscientific.com/products/software/jaws/

Adaptive Handwriting Tools

Adaptive Handwriting Tools & Aids | Daily Living Aids | eSpecial Needs

Reading Rockets

Assistive Technology for Writing | Reading Rockets

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Assistive Technologies for Reading

Text-to-Speech

Audible.com

Assistive Technologies for Reading

Types Of Assistive Technology For Reading Difficulties - Number Dyslexia

Assistive Technology Tools: Reading | AdLit

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Assistive Technologies for Communication

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)

Assistive Technology: Communication Products - Physiopedia

Assistive Technology for Communication - How it helps

How to Choose a Hearing Aid: Types and Styles