The Universal Design for Learning (UDL) Guidelines provide an excellent framework for building a toolkit of resources for supporting students with diverse needs. The UDL Guidelines support learner variability by providing multiple means of representation, expression, and engagement.
Each principle is further divided into three major guidelines and more specific checkpoints. The following modules are organized around these guidelines.
- Module 1 provides a brief introduction to UDL and the guiding principles.
- Modules 2-4 introduce tools that are compatible with multiple means of representation.
- Modules 5-7 provide tools for multiple means of expression.
- Modules 8-10 address multiple means of engagement.
Each module should take about 15 minutes to complete. Most offer a choice of various platforms; two are online resource collections. Although the modules have been numbered, they can be completed in any order.
All of the tools except Scholantis and ReadIris are free. Read&Write and Co:Writer Universal are subscription-based.
*** Thanks to SD#71 for partnering with us to develop this helpful resource!
Module 1: Introduction to UDL and the UDL Guidelines
Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is a framework for designing curricula that is flexible enough to work with a wide range of students. This flexibility is achieved by considering the varying needs of students when lessons are being designed and by implementing the UDL guidelines. The three main principles of UDL help teachers address diverse needs by providing multiple means of representation, action and expression, and engagement.
Please watch the two introductory videos to gain an understanding of the basic concepts of UDL. Then explore the UDL Guidelines in the downloadable activity found on the Resources Tab.


Module 2: Options for Perception
The Options for Perception guideline draws attention to variability in students’ perceptual needs. It’s important to ensure that students can see and hear instruction and that educational materials are designed in a way that enhances perception.


Module 3: Options for Language and Symbols
Teachers can support learning by clarifying vocabulary and symbols, syntax and structure, and supporting the decoding of text, mathematical notation, and symbols.



Module 4: Options for Comprehension
Teachers play a vital role in structuring knowledge in a way that enhances learning. Strategies which support comprehension include providing background knowledge and highlighting patterns, critical features, big ideas, and relationships. The following online resources are helpful in providing options for comprehension.

- Multiple Means of Representation: Options for Comprehension TicTacToe
- Options for Comprehension: Online Resources
Individual links listed from above Options for Comprehension: Online Resources document
- World Book Online
- Education Oasis
- Interactive Sites for Education
- CK12
- Wonderopolis
- Infographics Collection
- Options for creating graphics
Chrome Extensions
OCR Tools
Web-based Tools
Module 5: Options for Physical Action
Students will vary in their abilities and preferences for physical action. Wiggle cushions, bouncy balls, standing desks, and pencil grips are now being used in many schools. Students may differ in the way they access tools and assistive technologies.



Module 6: Options for Expression and Communication
A key concept in UDL is offering students choice in the way they demonstrate their learning. This includes using multiple media for communication and multiple tools for construction and composition. Teachers can support learning by offering varying levels of support for performance and practice.

Chrome Extensions
iOS
Web-based Tools
Module 7: Options for Executive Functions
Learning to set goals, plan assignments and monitor progress are important student skills. Teachers often support students in becoming strategic goal-directed learners by helping to structure or chunk assignments, using graphic organizers and planning tools, and providing checklists or rubrics.

Chrome Extensions
iOS
Web-based Tools
Module 8: Options for Recruiting Interest
Methods of recruiting interest include establishing a safe classroom environment free of threats and distractions and encouraging individual choice and autonomy. Students are more likely to embrace learning that is relevant and authentic. This collection of online resources provides some options for recruiting interest.



Module 9: Options for Sustaining Effort and Persistence
In order to succeed as learners, students need to develop “grit” and a growth mindset to persist in the face of difficulty. Teachers can assist by fostering classroom collaboration and community.



Module 10: Options for Self-Regulation
Developing personal coping skills and strategies for self-assessment and reflection assist students in learning to self-regulate. BC teachers are beginning to use online portfolios to promote student goal-setting, self-assessment and reflection. This module provides a brief overview and comparison of several online portfolio options.
