All of our units are developed using the principles of Universal Design for Learning. The UDL guidelines informed the design of the OpenSciEd instructional materials to minimize barriers and create pathways for diverse learners. Diverse learners include those who are culturally and linguistically diverse, have a disability, are emerging multilingual learners (EMLs) and/or are considered gifted and talented. Each individual student can be recognized as part of multiple groups and has unique characteristics specific to that individual.

The Universal Design for Learning (UDL) Guidelines are a tool that can be used to design learning experiences that meet the needs of all learners (CAST, 2018). Instructional designers and teachers can use these principles to create learning environments that reduce barriers to access for all students, while keeping in mind the learning goals of the lesson. The three guiding principles of UDL are engagement, representation, and action and expression. OpenSciEd units are purposefully designed with multiple avenues for engagement, representation, and action and expression. OpenSciEd units offer built-in supports for teachers to highlight student assets and to address potential barriers to learning for their local student population.

For more information on Universal Design for Learning in OpenSciEd units, check out page in our Teacher Handbook.

Or check out our Professional Learning materials on Universal Design in OpenSciEd.