Comments on: Plainfield CLC: How has UDL changed your job?

By: Mr. Schuh

Mr. Schuh — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 14:07:48 +0000

It is encouraging to see other teachers using UDL effectively. I know that I have been incorporating UDL in a way that has made planning lessons and finding/using technology in my classroom easier, however, I feel as though I am not as effective at implementing UDL in my classroom. I have used UDL to overcome the obstacle of a paper shortage by providing students an opportunity to complete a reading comprehension assignment online. I am not sure that it is a true application of UDL because students were not able to use a hard copy of the story where they could take notes or write down answers on paper. In essence my job has changed because I have found new ways to be flexible and work around obstacles to providing materials to students, but I am not sure that I have provided the same opportunities to students.

By: Joan Cansdale

Joan Cansdale — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 14:06:54 +0000

Anita, as you stated, “Technology has made differentiation more accessible for teachers.” To my mind, this is the primary focus and benefit of the UDL approach. Once teachers realize this, enthusiasm follows. Hard on the heels of enthusiasm is meaningful change. It’s difficult, even impossible, to not incorporate these tools and strategies into your daily practice once you see the positive effect on your students.

By: Tiffanie

Tiffanie — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 14:02:18 +0000

Since September (when I first learned about UDL) I have been very aware of the learning strategies of my students. I understand now that this is a technology world and I need to embark in it. I have started used different websites (games, lessons, tutorials, etc.)to assist with my lessons.

By: Jamie

Jamie — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 14:01:21 +0000

I agree with how much Udl can help in your classroom. It allows me to reach children of all levels without veering away from my instructional focus. Some of the technological components are limiting for me as a classroom teacher but I do my best with what resources I have. I have reached students that quite possibly would not have been reached as easily prior to UDL.

By: Pepper

Pepper — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 14:00:42 +0000

My job has changed in that UDL has brought validation to my belief in tech. infusion. I have been working toward increasing the use of tech. in the classroom for years. When UDL was set-up in our district I jumped right in. It was a perfect way to move forward with technology infusion.

By: beverly mack

beverly mack — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 14:00:12 +0000

beverly mackon 04 Mar 2009 at 6:55 am 6Your comment is awaiting moderation.
Thank you Anita. Your approach and success allows me to believe I will be able to cross the technology bridge with a little fortitude.
The challenge facing many is the application of the online resources available and sorting through what works for your students.I find the available technology more user friendly. Most important to those of us who are technologically challenged.
Keep up the inspirational work!

By: Pepper

Pepper — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 13:55:24 +0000

Below are the comments I made to Anita’s blog.
I commend you [Anita]. I seem to share your belief in UDL. Making it happen, however, is a daunting task. I am trying similar efforts at my school and I see all the scrambling I do as I read each of your statements above. I pray for the same success at my school.

By: Marie Maldonado

Marie Maldonado — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 13:54:39 +0000

I agree with you on how much UDL can change the dynamic of your classroom. I teach 4th and 5th Bilingual students, and since I started to bring more and more tech resources, I find out my students are more engage and eager to come every day to my classroom just to find out what new “cool thing” we are doing today. UDL is meaningful, fun and definitely the way to go. Congratulations, Anita!