Step 2 The UDL ENVIRONMENT

1. Step 2The UDLENVIRONMENT Technology Solutions – D75 NYC Department of Education

2. Principles of UDL Representation Expression Engagement Technology Solutions – D75 NYC Department of Education

3. REPRESENTATION: To create “Expert Learners” school staff must vary the presentation of information within the learning environment Expert Learners Technology Solutions – D75 NYC Department of Education

4. ENGAGEMENT: School staff needs to create an environment where students can become focused, stimulated, and interested in the learning process. Technology Solutions – D75 NYC Department of Education

5. The ideal environment for learning? NOTE: This is a photo from the web… not an actual D75 classroom. ? Technology Solutions – D75 NYC Department of Education

6. The ideal environment for learning? NOTE: This is a photo from the web… not an actual D75 classroom. ? Technology Solutions – D75 NYC Department of Education

7. The ideal environment for learning? NOTE: This is a photo from the web… not an actual D75 classroom. ? Technology Solutions – D75 NYC Department of Education

8. The UDL Environment • Universal Design For Learning begins with a well-designed environment. • The environment should promote a spirit of engagement and motivation to learn. Technology Solutions – D75 NYC Department of Education

9. Building a Foundation for UDL The set up of the environment must be carefully considered. • Void of visual / auditory distractions • Versatile layout that supports a place to work independently and in a group • Flexible work spaces to accommodate varied interaction with materials Technology Solutions – D75 NYC Department of Education

10. What needs to be done? Eliminate Organize Revise Technology Solutions – D75 NYC Department of Education

11. Eliminate • out-of-date content • materials that do not support current learning (e.g. birthday charts) • information that is not clear and concise • unnecessary décor • clutter (e.g. paper, books, furnishings that are not in use) Technology Solutions – D75 NYC Department of Education

12. Organize • Clearly labelstudent work and their work spaces • Clearly displaydirections and task expectations • Use color codingor some other system of visual organization • Post materials with the intended user in mind (e.g. medical alert sheet should be at adult level, not part of student display or the decorative display) • Display only materials for students that are a resource, a reminder, or facilitates their current work • Set up independent work areas that are intuitive and easy to use (e.g. use of sign-in/out sheets with pen… increases student independence and accountability) • Use furniture that is adjustable. If not available, provide accommodations (e.g. seat foot stools, wedges and easels). Technology Solutions – D75 NYC Department of Education

13. Revise • Bulletin boards should have solid backgrounds • Bulletin boards should have solid or no borders • Student work that had been evaluated should be filed, yet easy to get to (e.g. use of folders) • Space should be set up for functional use for large group activities, small group activities, and for transitioning from different kinds of activities Technology Solutions – D75 NYC Department of Education