1. Universal Design of Learning and Assistive Technology in the Classroom
A Pathway to Learning
Denise Nott
EDU 507

2. What is Universal Design of Learning (UDL)?
A focus on the various needs, strengths, experiences, and interests of diverse learners that is an integral component in classrooms
Provides a variety of instructional materials and methods of teaching that maximizes learning opportunities
Scientifically based research

3. Recognition Networks Strategic Networks Affective Networks
UDL helps teachers and other educators tailor their instruction to allow optimal learning to happen. Three brain networks assist for UDL learning to occur.
Recognition Networks
Strategic Networks
Affective Networks

4. Recognition Network The “what” of learning.
Located in the back of the brain
Identifies and interprets patterns from the sensory organs (sound, taste, touch, smell, and light).
UDL in the Classroom:
Provide visuals (graphic novels,
highlight important words, etc.)
Audio books
Interactive lesson (white board)
Examples:
Identify letters
Determine cause and effect
Tell the difference between two objects

5. Strategic Network The “how” of learning.
Located in the front of the brain
Allows individuals to make plans for actions, execute the actions, and organize/perform skillful tasks.
UDL in the Classroom:
Provide graphic organizers/scribe
option
Allow use of computer
programs (such as CoWriter 6)
Provide voice recording/scribe option
Examples:
Write a brief constructed response
Solve a math problem
Shoot a basketball

6. Affective Networks The “why” of learning
Located in the core of the brain
Assists with establishing interests, preferences, and motivations
Examples:
Nervous for a presentation
Excited for reading group
Interested in basketball in gym class
UDL in the classroom:
Relate the lesson to the real-
world
Provide choices
Teach self-reflection

7. Assistive Technology
A term that includes multiple devices (equipment, item, product system) that is used to assist an individual with his or her functional capabilities
Helps students learn, allows individuals to see/hear better, assists with communication, makes something easier to turn on or hold into place, etc.

8. Assistive Technology Services and Options
IEP
Must be considered at every IEP meeting
Can be part of:
Special education
Related services
Supplementary aids and services
Services are provided through assessments, tools, trainings, and consults
Law
Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), assistive technology must be provided to students with disabilities if it is necessary for them to receive free appropriate public education (FAPE).

9. Things to consider for Assistive Technology
S E T T
Student: current abilities, needs
Environment: equipment currently available, physical arrangement, instructional arrangement
Tasks: activities that take place, things that can be used to support active participation
Tools: strategies to increase student performance, tools and options to be considered based upon the other three areas

10. Examples of Assistive Technology There are thousands of assistive technology items and tools. Below are a few more commonly used.
Communication
Communication book/board (PODD)
Voice output device
Hearing
FM system
Computer aided note taking
Computer Access
Key guard
Alternate keyboard
Reading
Electronic books
Scanner with talking word processor
Writing
Talking word processor
Adapted paper (raised lines)
Math
Calculator
Software to allow manipulation of objects

11. References http://www.joyzabala.com (SETT Framework)
(Wisconsin Assistive Technology Initiative – overview of assistive technology categories/tools)
(UDL and 3 networks)
(UDL laws)
(Thorough listing of assistive technology data)