Here are my top 5 teacher friendly websites that support UDL:
1. http://www.CAST.org
This is the first place one should go when becoming familiar with UDL. It offers all the background knowledge on UDL such as the brain research and pedagogical theory. There are also professional development opportunities and online courses available.
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2. http://www.cast.org/teachingeverystudent/
The biggest difference between this site and the www.CAST.org site is that teaching every student offers activities based on UDL principles and guidelines. Also, there are case studies, curriculum checks, and barrier finds to assist teachers in identifying barriers in their existing curriculum. There are also model UDL lesson plans that teachers can build into their own UDL framework. You can watch a video as seen below to see different explanations of specific topics.
atch a Video
3. http://www.udlcenter.org/aboutudl/udlguidelines
UDL Guideline-Version 2.0
I call this the meat and potatoes of Universal Design for Learning. This is where teachers will want to go after they have a thorough understanding of UDL and its 3 major networks. Each network is broken down into checkpoints. The checkpoints are further broken down into actual instructional strategies with concrete examples. This is the site where I would spend the most time.
UDL Guidelines - Version 2.0: Examples and Resources
Checkpoint 4.1: Vary the methods for response and navigation
Key Considerations
- How does this help learners meet the goal?
- How does this account for the variability of all learners?
- Can the learner navigate their physical environment?
| Example/Resource | Why UDL? | ||
|---|---|---|---|
 | Camera Mouse
Camera Mouse is a free program that enables you to control the mouse pointer on your computer screen just by moving your head.
Be sure to check out the informational video on the website!
Age Group: All ages
Content Area: All areas Cost: Free Technology Involved: Windows 7, Vista, or XP computer and a webcam |
Why UDL? Controlling the mouse pointer with your head instead of your hand is a perfect example of providing options for physical response.
| |
 | Paralyzed Graffiti Artist Draws With His Eyes
Watch this video to see how Los Angeles-based graffiti artist Tony Quan uses a tool called "The Eye Writer" to create art using his eyes rather than his hands.
Age Group: All ages
Content Area: All areas Cost: Free to view video; Eye Writer estimated to be sold for around $50 once development is completed Technology Involved: Internet connection |
Why UDL? Creating art with eye movements is a great example of providing
| |
4. http:www.cast.org/teachingeverystudent/toolkits/tk_introduction.cfm?tk id=21
(PAL) Planning for All Learners
The PAL toolkit provides planning steps, guidance, mentoring, model lessons, tools, templates, resources, and links to other educators using the PAL model. I honestly don't see myself using this particular site myself, however I believe other teachers will find this site easy to navigate and useful.
What Can I Do Here?
- Learn about UDL and PAL concepts
- Practice applying PAL with templates, tutorials and tools
- Find UDL/PAL resources to use in the classroom or in a teacher workshop
- See how others have applied PAL in the classroom
What Does The Toolkit Include?
- Procedures
The steps and key UDL-based concepts of this toolkit. They tell you what to do and how to do it. - Examples
Classroom applications of the toolkit and guidance in applying UDL in your classroom. Examples may include case stories, model instructional units, and/or model lessons. - Resources
Further information, tools, templates, and related materials via online links and downloads. - Share
Connects you with others engaged in related work.
UDL Guidelines-Version 2.0 Examples and Resources
This is an extension of http://www.udlcenter.org/aboutudl/udlguidelines. The site offers examples and resources that illustrate each of the UDL checkpoints. This site gives teachers more ideas of ways to implement UDL in their classrooms. The resources illustrate each of the UDL checkpoints.
| ample/Resource | Why UDL? | ||
|---|---|---|---|
 | Goal Setting Worksheets
Find templates for goal-setting worksheets to use with your students to support their organizational skills.
Age Group: Elementary, Middle
Content Area: All Areas Cost: Free Technology Involved: Internet connection to access; can also choose to download and print out |
Why UDL? These organizational worksheets are great examples of strategies that guide students' goal-setting.
| |
 | Exploring Language
Exploring Language provides leveled support for learning about language and setting goals. See how students and artists explore and express their thoughts through poetry and song.
Age Group: K-12
Content Area: English, poetry, songwriting Cost: Free Technology Involved: Internet connection |
Why UDL? Exploring Language offers students models and tips as to how to set goals that make the writing process more effective.
| |
 | Helping My Students Set Goals the Smart Way
Elona Hartjes shares the insights, resources, and practical classroom strategies that have earned her A Teacher of Distinction Award.
Age Group: K-12
Content Area: All areas Cost: Free Technology Involved: Internet connection |
Why UDL? Elona's post "Helping my students set goals the smart way" offers ideas on effective goal-setting.
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These are great resources, Janell! I really enjoyed the video "Diversity of Learners". I will defiantly be using your resource guide in the future!
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