Planning for and Responding to Learning Needs with Universal Design for Learning and Differentiated Instruction

Welcome to this LD@school online learning module for educators!

This module is intended to provide an introductory overview of the concepts of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and Differentiated instruction (DI). These two educational approaches can provide tremendous support to students diagnosed with learning disabilities (LDs), as well as their typically developing peers. The module will present the shared aspects of these two approaches, how they differ, and provide guidance to educators in planning their lessons, with UDL, and adapting their lessons in accordance with student strengths and needs, using DI.

The menu on the left-hand side of this screen displays the outline of this module, which should take approximately 45 - 60 minutes to complete. To begin the module, you will complete a self-assessment to gauge your current knowledge of this topic. Then, the body of the module will provide you with information, strategies, and resources to help you support your students. To conclude, you will complete a final self-assessment to consolidate your learning.

Learning goals

• Understand the similarities and differences between UDL and DI
• Learn how to plan lessons with UDL to ensure that all students are able to learn and progress
• Learn to respond to student needs with the principles of DI

Upon completion, we hope you will apply what you learn in this module to your daily practice to help support the diverse learning needs of all your students.