This can benefit not only the students with disabilities, but all students who are having difficulty with or are misunderstanding an assignment. Co-teaching is the most common method of delivering specially designed instruction to students with disabilities in the least-restrictive environment.

Source: A Teacher’s Guide to Special Education, Bateman & Cline, 2015

This shared resource is a typical example of implementing the Universal Design for Learning principle of representation. This material can be accessed through watching a video, listening to a Podcast, or reading an article. Access options are provided; one of the main cornerstones of the Universal Design for Learning.

"Learner variability is the recognition that each learner is a unique constellation of strengths and challenges that are interconnected across the whole child. Understanding these connections and how they vary according to context is essential for meeting the needs of each learner.

It disrupts the notion of a one-size-fits all education. Understanding learner variability helps educators embrace both students’ struggles and strengths as we connect practice to uplifting the whole learner.

Throughout the site, we talk about "factors" and "strategies." Factors are concepts research suggests have an impact on how people learn. Strategies are the approaches to teaching and learning that can be used to support people in how they learn best." (Digital Promise)

Universal Design for Learning applies the same concept of designing for everyone in all aspects of learning and/or the school systems, including learning spaces, playgrounds, instruction, materials, assessments, classroom culture, and behavior management.

UDL, built on cognitive neuroscience, is an inclusive framework that seeks to remove barriers for learners.

UDL includes a paradigm shift from a deficit approach to neurodiversity, and a shift from singular accommodations to universally accessible scaffolds. UDL focuses on budling student agency.

The goal of UDL is to build learner agency where learners become self aware, they self direct, and participate in core creating the learning environment so that students can be successful in a flexible and adaptable learning environment. There is a need to develop learner executive functioning as we core-design with the learners, and recognize student voice.

1. Fostering Inclusivity and Equity

• Universally designed playgrounds eliminate barriers, enabling children with disabilities to play alongside their peers.

• Promotes a sense of belonging and reduces stigmatization by creating an environment where everyone can participate equally.

2. Supporting Development for All Children

• Playgrounds are critical for physical, social, emotional, and cognitive development. Universal design ensures that these benefits are accessible to every child.

• Features like sensory play zones, wheelchair-accessible ramps, and multi-sensory equipment cater to a variety of developmental needs.

3. Enhancing Social Skills and Empathy

• When children of all abilities play together, it fosters understanding, empathy, and respect among peers.

• Encourages teamwork and collaboration as children learn to interact with others who have different abilities.

4. Compliance with Legal and Ethical Standards

• Many regions have laws (e.g., the Americans with Disabilities Act in the U.S.) mandating accessibility in public spaces, including playgrounds.

• Ethical responsibility compels schools to create spaces that respect the rights of all children to participate fully in school life.

5. Promoting Health and Well-being

• Physical activity is essential for health, and accessible playgrounds ensure all children can benefit.

• Universal design often includes sensory elements that support children with autism or sensory processing disorders, enhancing their overall well-being.

6. Future-Proofing Infrastructure

• Universal design benefits not only children with disabilities but also parents, teachers, or visitors with mobility challenges.

• These playgrounds are adaptable to changing needs, ensuring long-term usability.

7. Community and Parental Engagement

• Inclusive playgrounds demonstrate a school’s commitment to diversity, encouraging stronger support from parents and the broader community.

• They become a shared space for learning and connection, extending their impact beyond the school.