Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and Learning Differences
Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is an educational framework that focuses on designing education to meet the needs of all learners by focusing on flexibility and accessibility. UDL maximizes the potential for learners to meet their educational goals.
UDL History, Framework, Guidelines, and Application Tips
CAST, originally known as the Center for Applied Special Technology, is a nonprofit education research and development organization that created the Universal Design for Learning framework and UDL Guidelines.
The National Center on Accessible Educational Materials for Learning: Provides technical assistance, coaching, and resources to increase the availability and use of accessible educational materials and technologies for learners with disabilities.
The Center on Inclusive Technology & Education Systems (CITES): Provides resource assistance with building and maintaining technology systems designed to aid students who require assistive technology and accessible materials.
The LINCS Learners with Disabilities: This website offers courses that provide insight into UDL principles and guidelines, as well as focusing on specific UDL concepts such as goal setting, building a sense of community, promoting learner self-agency, and applying UDL principles in the math, reading, and writing classrooms. Some of these courses are also the foundation of courses offered in the PA PD Portal, which allows the participant to earn professional development recognition. Interested participants should log into the course offerings in the PA PD Portal to view specific courses offered.
Resource Accessibility Information
A cornerstone of Universal Design for Learning principles is making educational resources accessible to everyone. Online educational platforms can highlight their conformity to Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) by sharing their Voluntary Product Accessibility Template (VPAT). Not familiar with these terms or how to read a VPAT? An explanation of these terms and additional accessibility information is available in our informational document. Interested in finding out about the accessibility features offered in one of the approved PA DL online resources? Check out the resource summary for a particular resources through our Curriculum Search page.
Resources for Learning Differences
- Staff Induction Module: Using the Classroom toolkit
- The Literacy Information and Communication System (LINCS) website includes Learning Differences resources, an online LD discussion group, and professional development courses for Learning Differences. These courses are self-directed, and you will need to create a free login to access these courses.
- The brain’s CEO and other associative processes
- Visual acuity check with increasing fonts
- Basic Learning Differences Classroom Toolkit
- Support and Resources for Adults with LD