UDL Action and Expression

I read an article called "Using Flexible Participation in Technology-Supported, Universally Designed Preschool Activities," by Howard P. Parette, Jr. and Craig Bloom. While this article speaks to using UDL in a preschool setting, the concepts are still the same. I also think it is worth noting that if we can teach UDL in a preschool to young children, then why are we so hesitant to teach this to high school students? The research shows that children thrive when they can show how they learn in a more creative, individualistic way. Students tend to engage more when they can communicate in different ways. The article discusses how "using technology can include modes of communication used by children . . . to present understanding" (61). The students are able to use the different methods of expression to convey their understanding of material. They are also able to take initiative in their own education. The research seems very positive and encouraging regarding this topic.

In my own classroom, I love the idea of using technology to express learning a different way, as well as being able to use technology to take action in their own learning. I think that students being able to take advantage of their own learning and feel empowered in the classroom is such a valuable thing. I want the students to learn what tools are available to them to further their own learning. I think it would be valuable to let students choose whenever possible. I think that letting students choose book groups every once in awhile, pick assessment options, and learning tools. Implementing this in my classroom will need to happen at the beginning of the year, so that we can get all the exposure we can. Not letting students know what is available to them isn't doing my job.

Hopefully, this will help my students understand what is available to them in action and expression. Each student will be able to learn the different resources that are available, so they can learn  the best they can. Expressing themselves in different ways will hopefully spark interest and creativity. If students feel like they are being recognized as people, and what they are doing is relevant to real life, then they will feel more empowered, and learning can be more exciting.

My goals in implementing this in my classroom are that students will be able to learn how they can express themselves and be able to learn how to critically think in different ways other than just traditional tests and essays. Learning that there are other learning tools available to them that they can use even after they leave my classroom is so important. I also have the goal of helping students learn that taking action for their own education is one of the best things that you can do,

As I've been mentioning throughout this blog post, empowered learners understand how to help themselves learn. They know the tools that are available to them, and how to use them. I also want learners to learn that they can take control of their education.

Parette, Jr., Howard P.; Blum, Craig. Teaching Exceptional Children.Jan/Feb2014, Vol. 46 Issue 3, p60-67. 8p. , Database: Professional Development Collection