Holistic Education: Universal Design for Learning
Course overview
This interactive, hands-on course is designed to empower educators with the principles and strategies of Universal Design for Learning (UDL), fostering a holistic approach to inclusive education. Through a series of engaging modules, participants will learn how to unlock the potential of all students, accommodating diverse learning needs, abilities, and cultural backgrounds.
The course will delve into the core concepts of UDL, exploring strategies to identify and remove barriers to learning, foster creativity, and seamlessly integrate all students into a unified, inclusive learning environment. Participants will learn how to engage learners through multiple means of engagement, representation, and action and expression, catering to diverse learning styles and preferences.
Emphasis will be placed on practical applications, with participants crafting their own lesson plans and tasks, delving into real-life examples, and engaging in collaborative activities. The course will provide a supportive group setting that emphasizes peer-to-peer learning, idea exchange, and the cultivation of robust teaching skills.
Participants will explore the synergistic relationship between UDL and differentiated instruction, learning how to leverage technology and blended learning strategies to enhance UDL implementation. The course will also guide participants through the process of UDL lesson planning, navigating the shift towards expert learning within the UDL framework.
To enhance the learning experience and provide a cultural context, the course will incorporate a guided cultural visit, allowing participants to explore local heritage and sustainable practices. This visit will further enrich their understanding of inclusive and environmentally conscious approaches to education.
Tentative schedule:
Day 1: Foundations of Universal Design for Learning
Day 2: Engaging diverse learners through multiple means
Day 3: Assessing with inclusivity and cultural exploration
Day 4: Technology-enabled learning and blended strategies
Day 5: UDL lesson planning and course wrap-up
The classes typically run from 9 in the morning to 2 in the afternoon, with the afternoon and evening reserved for self-reflection and individual study. However, the course schedule may be adjusted to accommodate the preferences of the participants and the availability of instructors or external learning locations. Participants will receive the finalized schedule well in advance, allowing ample time for preparation and planning.
Learning outcomes:
The participants will be able to: