Chris Hromalik, an Assistant Professor at SUNY Oswego and expert in Universal Design for Learning (UDL), shares insights on boosting student motivation by promoting autonomy. He discusses the shift from teacher-centered to learner-centered teaching and highlights practical strategies for fostering inclusivity. Emphasizing goal-setting and self-regulation in education, Chris suggests using diverse assignment formats to enhance engagement. He also addresses the integration of AI tools, advocating for manageable changes to encourage ethical use in classrooms.
Increasing student autonomy through choices in learning resources significantly enhances their intrinsic motivation and engagement with the material.
The Universal Design for Learning framework prioritizes inclusive education by proactively designing learning experiences that foster student agency and eliminate barriers.
Deep dives
The Importance of Student Autonomy
Increasing student autonomy is crucial for enhancing intrinsic motivation in learners. When students feel they have control over their learning experiences, they are more likely to engage deeply with the material. For instance, allowing students to choose their learning resources rather than assigning a single textbook fosters a sense of ownership and encourages exploration. This intrinsic motivation is linked to better academic performance and greater creativity in the classroom.
Universal Design for Learning Framework
The Universal Design for Learning (UDL) framework aims to create inclusive and accessible learning experiences by providing multiple means of engagement, representation, and action. By designing instruction proactively rather than retrofitting it after the fact, educators can eliminate barriers to learning for all students. An example of effective UDL implementation was a mathematics professor who enhanced a complex topic with visual aids and descriptive language, benefiting students with varying learning needs. This approach not only aids those with disabilities but also enriches the learning environment for everyone.
Shifts in UDL Guidelines
The recent updates to the UDL guidelines emphasize a shift from teacher-centered to learner-centered instruction, focusing on developing learner agency rather than merely imparting knowledge. The new guidelines encourage faculty to design learning experiences that allow students to take ownership of their education. This transition reflects a growing recognition that fostering autonomy within students leads to enhanced engagement and motivation. By empowering students to shape their learning processes, educators can cultivate a more dynamic and responsive classroom environment.
Scaffolding Self-Regulated Learning
Incorporating scaffolding techniques can help students develop essential skills such as goal setting and self-regulation. For example, implementing reflective journal entries encourages students to monitor their progress, evaluate their goals, and adapt their learning strategies accordingly. This reflective practice fosters a sense of responsibility and encourages students to actively engage with their educational journey. Additionally, setting realistic and achievable goals can help demystify the learning process, reducing frustration and enhancing overall student satisfaction.
Providing more autonomy can increase students’ intrinsic motivation. In this episode, Chris Hromalik joins us to discuss ways of increasing student autonomy within the UDL framework. an Assistant Professor of Spanish and Distance Learning Instruction and Design at SUNY Oswego. He is also the Project Manager of the Universal Design for Learning at SUNY Project. In this role he provides Universal Design for Learning professional development across the SUNY system. Chris is also the recipient of a SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Scholarship and Creative Activities. His research focuses on UDL as well as statistical analysis on applied linguistics and education.