"UDL" - the next buzzword? (Part 2) The Honeycomb!
This is part 2 in a series of three posts discussing the next buzzword to potentially hit Australian schools: "UDL" (Universal Design for Learning).
Whereas UDL is already used extensively by SSP teachers to address barriers for students with a Specific Learning Disability (SLD) this article looks solely at the pros of implementing the UDL approach widely across mainstream education.
(BTW apologies in advance for the inclusion of too many bee puns in this series!)
Here are just eight of the many PROS for using UDL:
1. DO-BEE
UDL is what good teachers already do.
2. NEWBEE
UDL is the best all-encompassing framework I have encountered that describes what good teaching looks like and should bee. I would therefore recommend that all trainee teachers become well-versed in UDL before they commence in a classroom teaching role. UDL is a sound and sensible foundation that new teachers can successfully launch from.
3. WANNABEE
UDL would bee highly beneficial for any teacher who wants to take their classroom practice to the next level.
4. BEE MINDFUL
UDL could bee a useful tool for experienced proficient teachers who want to reflect on, or revise, good teaching and planning practices.
5. BEE INCLUDED
UDL aims to ensure all students in a class have equal opportunities to learn. UDL seeks to minimise barriers and maximise inclusion for all learners.
6. BEE HAPPY
UDL gives teachers permission to provide their students with more choice and ownership, which will assist students to work towards autonomy and self-managed learning. (Dean, 2018)
7. BEE CREATIVE AND INNOVATIVE
UDL gives teachers permission, as well as guidelines to follow, to create new customised learning materials. (Dean, 2018)
8. FREEBEE
UDL knowledge is free! You can find plenty of online training, information and content that you won't have to pay for. There are even online colonies of teachers which you can join where ideas and resources developed using the UDL approach can bee accessed and shared by all.
If your school has started the UDL journey please share your positive experiences with others who might be contemplating introducing UDL at their school.
Hive a nice day!
James Phelps
Royal jelly! This is the best site for teachers new to UDL to find good PL and resources -
http://castprofessionallearning.org/free-udl-resources-and-tips/
Other references
