Reflecting on the Universal Design for Learning and Differentiation

Reflecting back on my experience in Walden’s Education 6714 “Reaching and Engaging All Learners through Technology” makes me realize how much authentic knowledge I’ve gained. I’ve realized that classrooms no longer look like they did when we were in school. The format is no longer the teacher in the front of the room lecturing to students sitting in straight rows of desks. Today’s classrooms have a teacher as the facilitator, helping the students find the information they desire. Students now sit in collaborative groups, which enable them to work together developing the skills they will later use in the workforce. In the beginning of this course we created a group ning. Through this ning, our groups were able to collaborate on the principles of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and Differentiated Instruction. Each group member was asked to share links for additional resources involving these topics. I will now be able to use these resources when implementing both concepts in my classroom.

These resources on the ning will be used to create lessons using the principles of UDL and then accommodate them using Differentiated Instruction. During the creation stage of the lesson plans, technology will be used to implement variety in the manner in which the lessons are introduced, the process of the lesson, and in the product that is created. In sticking to the principles of UDL, the lesson will be rolled out using Power Point presentations, SMART Board interactive strategies, and talking text among other tools. Students will be allowed to choose how they will demonstrate their knowledge with regard to their final product. They can decide to use any of the above methods or use podcasts, digital storytelling or any other tool in which they feel comfortable. The important thing is that they feel enabled to use the method that works best for them as an individual.

Much of the hands on experience that I have gained throughout this course will be used to expand the walls of my classroom. This year I will develop a classroom ning along with a classroom website. The ning will be used to enable my students to work collaboratively on projects and ask questions of the teacher. They will be able to discuss topics, which will be helpful for the teacher since the discussion posts will have the time/date stamp attached. The classroom website will be used to post assignments and increase communication and understanding between me and the parents of my students. Having this hands on experience will go a long way when assisting my students to develop tools of their own.

This course has given me the ability to explore methods of technology that will help motivate and bridge the gap between student abilities. It has demonstrated for me that gaining experience with technology helps me to become more comfortable with it. This will enable me to implement the technology that is so crucial to meeting the individual needs of today’s students. Teachers are no longer the experts in the classroom; especially where technology is concerned.