Conclusion:
Whether you are planning lessons using UDL or responding to specific student needs with differentiated instruction, both frameworks have common features which centre students. Both consider student strengths and needs while providing flexibility. Most importantly, UDL and DI keep high student expectations and standards. The learning objectives remain the same for all students in your class, just the way students access and show their learning is changed.
By removing barriers to learning, both before and during your lessons, you are also making school a more equitable place. This helps create an atmosphere where every student feels welcome, respected, and rightfully appreciated so they can fully participate in their learning to the best of their skills and abilities.
Students achieve better results when we plan appropriately and find ways to capitalize on strengths and address the diverse needs of students in our classrooms.
