"According to the Center for Universal Design, the intent of universal design is to simplify life for everyone by making products, communications, and the built environment more usable by as many people as possible at little or no extra cost. Universal design benefits people of all ages and abilities." (Council for Exceptional Children, Universal Design for Learning: A Guide for Teachers and Education Professionals, 2005, p. xi)
"To the extent possible, the teacher creates varied and inclusive learning situations that use digital and assistive technologies. She has removed physical barriers to learning so that students with sensory-motor disabilities have more access." (Council for Exceptional Children, Universal Design for Learning: A Guide for Teachers and Education Professionals, 2005, p. xi)
Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is not a "one-size-fits-all" approach. (Council for Exceptional Children, Universal Design for Learning: A Guide for Teachers and Education Professionals, 2005, p. xii) The principles of UDL allows the educator to customize the learning and classroom environment to meet the needs of the individuals in that classroom.
According to the Center for Applied Special Technology (CAST), "Universal Design for Learning calls for …
- Multiple means of representation, to give learners various ways of acquiring information and knowledge,
- Multiple means of expression, to provide learners alternatives for demonstrating what they know,
- Multiple means of engagement, to tap into learners' interests." (www.cast.org)
