Teaching with Technology Part 3

During this week readings the main focus was over UDL and the purpose of this planning process. Universal Design for Learning also known as (UDL) can be used to provide individual students with appropriate instructional support and challenge through Recognition which is done through representations this known as  activating the students prior knowledge with the use of media and/or vocabulary. Another principle known as Strategic which is basically action and expression allowing the students plenty of options for expressing themselves as well as providing models and feedback through students actively working on the task at hand. The last one is known as engagement, and the focus is mainly on students' interest and whether they are motivated and challenged in their learning. Digital tools will allow the UDL plan to be more efficient in getting the students involved and motivated in their learning. Digital tools can be integrated in all three of the Networks in order for students to be successful.

Below you will see a breakdown from the UDL Website of the 3 Networks:

To support diverse recognition networks:

• Provide multiple examples
• Highlight critical features
• Provide multiple media and formats
• Support background context.

To support diverse strategic networks:

• Provide flexible models of skilled performance
• Provide opportunities to practice with supports
• Provide ongoing, relevant feedback
• Offer flexible opportunities for demonstrating skill.

To support diverse affective networks:

• Offer choices of content and tools
• Offer adjustable levels of challenge
• Offer choices of rewards
• Offer choices of learning context.  

• Citation: Cast.org (2009). Model UDL lessons. Center for Applied Special Technology. Retrieved from http://udlselfcheck.cast.org/
• Citation: Cast.org (2009). Cast UDL book builder. Center for Applied Special Technology. Retrieved from http://bookbuilder.cast.org