With COVID-19 closing schools and learning centers across Algeria, World Learning’s STEM Team rapidly created online activities for participants in diverse communities. The UDL framework guided the creation of content and the continuous tinkering that followed to assure meaningful interaction for the maximum number of learners. Synchronous and asynchronous content targeted diverse participants from the Saharan desert to the Mediterranean coast, increasing participation by over 500% compared to physical attendance rates. Participants will be able to interact directly with STEM Mentors in Algeria to learn how to adapt online learning opportunities for diverse audiences, reducing barriers and increasing engagement using multiple means of online participation.

Session Video Recording

Session Resources:

• Isra Chahrazad Ghoumiri
• Ismail Alem: 
  • Demographics Poll
  • Area Poll
• Hiba Mobarki

"New discoveries about the workings of the learning brain have converged with advancements in educational technology to finally make possible the kinds of flexible learning environments that students need to prepare for their future. According to the Universal Design for Learning (UDL) framework, flexibility is key because it allows educators to accommodate their students’ natural variability in learning preferences."

"While UDL is first and foremost about implementing a flexible pedagogy, technology can help by making the kind of personalized learning envisioned under UDL a reality. Read on to find out about a number of free and low-cost UDL-aligned apps and websites that you can use to make learning environments more flexible and personalized. Or, if you prefer to view the list visually, take a look at our Pinterest board."

UDL planning always starts with the students and assumes that learner variability is the rule rather than the exception.  If we plan for the “average” student, our lessons will not work as well as they could for all of our students.  Planning pro-actively for diverse needs removes potential curriculum barriers, allowing more students to succeed.  Architects no longer have to retrofit buildings with ramps and elevators because these supports were planned at the point of design.  Similarly, the essence of UDL is to intentionally plan for diverse needs instead of providing accommodations remedially.

In order to plan for diverse needs, we must know our students well.  Student profiles and class reviews are tools that help educators learn about the abilities and needs of their students.  Students also need to develop an understanding of their own learning strengths, preferences and needs.

Creating the kind of emotional and physical classroom environment in which your students can flourish is vital to a UDL approach.  Students need to feel that your classroom is a safe place to express their individuality, take risks and learn from mistakes.  The physical design of your classroom can also affect students’ ability to learn.