Neurodiversity Podcast

Education for Everyone Through Universal Design for Learning

Mar 7, 2024

Exploring Universal Design for Learning (UDL) in education, addressing barriers and strategies for implementation. UDL promotes collaboration, empathy, and diverse perspectives among students. Technology plays a key role in supporting UDL practices. Parents can advocate for their children by collaborating with educators. Teachers should approach UDL with a growth mindset, making small adjustments for a big impact.

38:55

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Episode guests

Jeff Horwitz

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Episode notes

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Quick takeaways

UDL promotes inclusive learning environments for all students, focusing on diverse needs and styles.

Technology enhances UDL by offering multiple engagement options and personalized accessibility tools.

Deep dives

Universal Design for Learning

Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is a pedagogical approach that emphasizes proactive planning to cater to diverse learner needs. By incorporating flexibility and choice, teachers can design lessons that accommodate various learning styles and preferences. UDL aims to shift from personalized education to creating flexible learning experiences that empower students to make choices. Implementing UDL fosters executive function and social skills development, promoting student autonomy and engagement.

Introduction

2min

Exploring Neurodiversity and Education with Novak Education's Jeff Horwitz

2min

Empowering Inclusive Education through Universal Design

12min

Reimagining Education: Mastery-Based Learning and Individualized Paths to Success

2min

Enhancing Neurodiversity Affirming Practices in Education

19min

Creating Inclusivity Through Universal Design for Learning

2min

On this episode, Emily Kircher-Morris talks with Jeff Horwitz about the concept of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and its application in education. UDL focuses on creating learning environments and experiences that are accessible and beneficial for all students, regardless of their learning styles or abilities. How can UDL be implemented in both classroom and home settings? What are some common barriers to implementing UDL, and what are some strategies to overcome them? What’s the role of technology in supporting UDL practices? It’s a deep dive into UDL, on episode 215.

TAKEAWAYS

Universal Design for Learning (UDL) aims to create inclusive learning environments that meet the needs of all students.
UDL can be implemented in both classroom and home settings, promoting autonomy and agency in student learning.
Barriers to implementing UDL include resistance to change, lack of time, and perceived lack of training.
Small changes and incremental adjustments can make a significant impact in implementing UDL.
UDL fosters collaboration and empathy among students, promoting diverse perspectives and strengths.
Technology can be a powerful tool in supporting UDL practices, providing options for engagement, accessibility, and personalization.
Parents can advocate for their children by sharing their insights and experiences with educators, and by collaborating to create a supportive learning environment.
Teachers should approach UDL with a growth mindset, recognizing that success is measured by meeting the needs of all learners.

To learn more about the Neurodiversity University courses for educators, click the link, and get in touch with us through the contact page if you have questions.

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Jeff Horwitz is a 20-year educator and has been an administrator at independent schools in St. Louis since 2013. Prior to becoming an administrator, Jeff taught kindergarten through third grade in public and private schools. Jeff is passionate about providing students with opportunities for learning that will prepare them for the increasingly automated world we live in through collaborating with teachers, and using student-centered techniques. Jeff is an advocate for project-based learning and Universal Design for Learning (UDL). When Jeff isn’t immersed in schools, he’s spending time with his two kids, cooking, golfing and playing music with friends.

BACKGROUND READING

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Novak Education