Universal Design for Learning
Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is a framework for designing courses and learning materials that are open and easily accessible to all learners. One key insight from UDL is that ensuring learners with disabilities can fully participate also enhances learning for all. A simple example is video captioning. While students with hearing disabilities need this to get the content, all students benefit from having the transcript. They can study from the text or read along without sound on a mobile device. Removing barriers for learners at the margins simultaneously enriches learning for those in the middle.

So UDL is not just about the supporting accessibility technology for learners with disabilities. Extending from this, the UDL framework recognizes cognitive and affective variability in all learners and suggests ways to accommodate differences while remaining focused on common outcomes. UDL incorporates evidence-based best practices for providing multiple means of presenting, using, and engaging with content. The graphic below is from  CAST , the leading research organization on UDL. See their website for more information, research, and practical applications.
Upcoming Event: CTE Book Club

Out of Our Minds: Learning to Be Creative
by Ken Robinson

Organizations across the globe are competing in a world that is changing faster than ever. They say they need people who can think creatively, who are flexible and quick to adapt. Too often they say they can't find them. In this provocative book, Ken Robinson addresses three vital questions:
Why is it essential to promote creativity?
What is the problem?
What can be done about it. 

Book Club will meet on Wednesday, January 10th at 3:00 pm.