Our school district is in the beginning stages of UDL implementation. It’s an exciting time! However, our implementation committee has heard some misconceptions from staff around UDL. It’s something I’ve heard not just in work, but in workshops and other training opportunities.
I took to Twitter a while back i order to process and uncover these 5 myths about UDL and offer an explanation about what UDL is and isn’t. My hope is that debunking these myths will help to deepen understanding around what UDL is and isn’t.
You can find these tweets on Wakelet
Below are the 5 Myths about UDL:
Myth 1: UDL is a “Special Ed thing”.
Debunk: UDL is a foundational framework with deep roots in neuroscience that proactively plans for learner variability.
Myth 2: UDL is a program.
Debunk: UDL is a foundational framework that proactively plans for learner variability by empowering educators to co-design inclusive learning experiences in order to meet the needs of all learners.
Myth 3: UDL is Differentiated Instruction.
Debunk: UDL and DI are not the same. DI can fit nicely within the UDL Guidelines as a strategy to help meet the needs of all learners when it is used proactively, not as an afterthought. UDL proactively plans for learner variability by front loading options, choices, and flexibility in curriculum, whereas DI focus on individual learners and offers supports in a more retrofitted manner.
Myth 4: UDL is something you do (“UDL? I already do UDL!”)
Debunk: UDL is not a “treatment”. It’s so much deeper than that. It’s a mindset shift. It’s a paradigm shift. It’s process is not linear. UDL is not a treatment, or something to be “done to” a learner. UDL proactively plans for learner variability by front loading strategies and supports. Those strategies and supports may change based on the needs of learners. More importantly, UDL is a way of being.
Myth 5: UDL is a technology thing.
Debunk: The UDL guidelines recommend the use of assistive technologies for all learners as a vehicle to provide access, engagement, and expression. In fact, the use of Assistive Technologies are mentioned within the UDL guidelines. However, UDL is not all about technology. UDL looks not only at curriculum, but environments, practices, and ones mindset. It’s deeper than just one thing. UDL is everything.
Check the 5 myths about UDL on Wakelet!
Or use the QR code below to access the 5 myths about UDL Debunked:
