Hello everyone! We are happy to see that you have decided to complete NCDPI’s online learning module on Universal Design for Learning, or UDL. There are two facilitators for this course: Dr. Forrest McFeeters and Dr. Mary Keel.
This module is divided into four sections. It begins with a brief overview of UDL, its history and basic concepts.
The second section, which will take most of your time, will send you to another website to complete a self-directed learning module. This module is created and hosted by CAST, the Center for Applied Special Technology. CAST is a non-profit research and development organization that works to expand learning opportunities for all individuals, especially those with disabilities, through universal design for learning.
In the third section, you will continue your work in the CAST module by exploring the Using the UDL Guidelines Worksheet and begin planning the design of your UDL lesson. These last two sections will direct you as you develop your final project for the course.
This NCDPI module concludes with a self-assessment and reflection. You will review your lesson plan design while reflecting on what you have learned. Upon completion of all activities, you will be able to print a certificate recording your participation.
Are you ready to begin? Proceed to the next page for an overview of UDL.
In this section, you will learn what UDL is and why it is important to North Carolina classrooms in the twenty-first century. You will complete readings and discussion forums on the history and fundamentals of UDL.
Before you begin this section, please make sure that you have reviewed the content in the module overview.
This week, you are expected to complete the readings and activities in this section. The first activity is to introduce yourself to the other participants in the course in the discussion board. You will complete a journal activity on the history of universal design and universal design for learning. You will have the opportunity to choose two readings from the section entitled “Connections to Twenty-First Century Teaching and Learning,” and then post in this week’s discussion forum.
Now you’re ready for the first CAST module, Introduction to UDL. This module explains the three principles of UDL, the connection of UDL to neuroscience, and the impact of UDL on curriculum. Click the link below to go to the CAST website. When you’re finished, return here and proceed to the next page.
Welcome to week 4, “Summary and Reflection.” In this section, we will take a few minutes to sum up, review your lesson plan design, and reflect on what we have learned. You will have the opportunity to finish adapting your lesson to include universal design for learning principle 3, multiple means of engagement.
Once you have completed this activity, you should have a lesson plan that incorporates the principles of UDL. This is your final project. You will submit your UDL lesson plan to the discussion forum to share with others in the course.
Once you have completed your final project, you will need to complete the module reflection, self-assessment, and the conclusion before receiving your certificate of completion.
We hope that you have enjoyed learning about UDL and that you will participate in Universal Design for Learning Part 2.
In conclusion, I would like to ask that you implement the components of UDL in your daily teaching practice. The concepts you have learned will assist all students in achieving success. Please share your knowledge of UDL with your colleagues and encourage them to use UDL as part of their own practice.
Thank you for participating and for working to continually improve your practice!