Universal Design for Learning (UDL) Cross Linguistic Supports

Claudia is the Endowed Joan Wieler Arno 49 Professor at…

The Center for Applied Special Technology (CAST) is the developer of this framework. According to CAST their definition for Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is a “framework for designing curricula that enable all individuals to gain knowledge, skills, and enthusiasm for learning. UDL provides rich supports for learning and reduces barriers to the curriculum while maintaining high achievement standards for all.”

In this blog post I am interested in highlight tools that are beneficial for the instructional planning for English language learners.
1. A link to the UDL principles (available in Spanish, English, Portuguese, Romanian, and other Asian languages). These principles has direct connections to instructional planning and the UDL guidelines. The Spanish principles guidelines provide information on “ Pautas de Diseño Universal para el Aprendizaje” This “pautas” present multiple ways of presentation, expression and motivation with direct explanations on “how to” plan instruction using these UDL guidelines. There are special video training, explanations and checklist to make sure the teachers use UDL when developing their lesson plans to be accessible for all.

For a video guidance of UDL from CAST please click here

For guides for cross linguistics support highlighted by CAST click here

Finally for a link to their online UDL Learning Tools click here.

I encourage everyone to take the summer to investigate and try these tools as you plan your instruction for the next school year.

Claudia Rinaldi, Ph.D.

Claudia is the Endowed Joan Wieler Arno 49 Professor at Lasell University. She is currently a full professor of education and chair of the Education Program. Claudia has been a teacher, researcher, consultant, and professor of special education.