Topic 4: Universal Access for Learners

source for the infographic:

https://dailynews.mcmaster.ca/articles/new-initiatives-resources-help-improve-accessibil
ity-in-teaching-and-learning-on-campus/

1. “The way people learn is as unique as their fingerprints'' (Professor Castillo). My

understanding of Universal Access for learners is that it is an educational
practice in which educators plan for a wide range of learners. This idea supports
the design and delivery of curriculum using multimodal strategies that create an
accessible and inclusive learning environment for all students. Universal Access
for Learners designs these lessons and learning so that there is no need for
individualized accommodation. This method understands that each and every
student is different and has different needs that need to be met in order for
maximum learning to occur. Providing options for action and expression is
essential along with providing materials in which all learners can interact.
2. One example of how I would design my lesson to be universally accessible to my
future students would be making sure that my lesson has multiple means of
representation, expression and engagement. For example, if I was making a math
lesson, I would make sure when designing the lesson plan that I am creating
different means of representing the content in the beginning. I would explain the
math lesson through words, pictures and physical, hands-on manipulatives such
as base ten blocks. From there, I would allow the students to engage with the
material how they choose. They can choose to go to the station in which they are
working independently on the material, the station where they are collaborating
with their peers, the station where they are meeting with the teacher, or the
hands-on manipulatives station. This allows the students the choice to learn how
they see fit best. Lastly, this choice of stations allows multiple means of
expression to show that they have mastered the content rather than a one
singular test. Universal Access for Learners nurtures the potential of every
learner rather than just the average.