Week 3 Reflection

This week I found the readings about creating a UDL lesson very informative.  The goal of the UDL lesson is to be flexible with your presentation, activities, and assessment so that you can reach each student in your classroom.  Rose and Meyer (2002) said, “Successful learning experiences challenge and support each learner appropriately and adjust as the learner changes over time.”  We all know that classrooms are filled with students that have a variety of skills and abilities, so the teacher has to meet multiple needs.  Using different aspects of technology along with the UDL lesson format is an excellent way to achieve that goal.  Following this plan will also help the teacher establish goals and create lessons that access the three learning networks: recognition, strategic, and affective.  Rose and Meyer (2002) explained, “When affective engagement links background knowledge with strategic or recognition tasks, students are more likely to build skills, sustained interest, and deep understanding.”  These three networks work together, but also have separate functions.  The recognition network helps us to understand ideas and concepts.  The strategic network helps us to plan and complete tasks.  The affective network helps us to connect to the “why” of learning.  Creating a UDL lesson will take some time and preparation, but it will allow all students the opportunity for success.

Rose, D., & Meyer, A. (2002). Teaching every student in the digital age: Universal design for learning. Alexandria, VA: Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development. Available online at the Center for Applied Special Technology Web site. Chapter 6. Retrieved from http://www.cast.org/teachingeverystudent/ideas/tes/