UDL Blog
Module 4 Activities
Physical Environment:
The Action and Expression principle recognizes that learners differ in how they interact with learning materials and demonstrate what they know. Providing multiple options can reduce barriers and allow learners to participate more fully.
Top 10 Tips for Action and Expression:
1. Small group discussions
2. Provide material in advance
3. Ensure good lighting in the space
4. Materials should be placed on accessible tables
5. Speak facing your audience, not when turned back
6. Make sure there is no background noise, or keep it to a minimum
7. Use high colour contrast between text and background for handouts and presentations
8. Ensure there is enough space for mobility devices to move around the room
9. Ask if any specialized equipment is required prior to the workshop
10. Read notes aloud and describe all visual materials.
Â
Expression, Communication and Application:
Click below for an activity card that can be used to help participants in a workshop apply their learning suing problem solving and/or creative thinking.
Role of Technology:
The principles of UDL can be applied to online learning by considering the different needs and preferences of learners. Engagement can be supported by setting clear goals so learners know what to expect and by combining individual asynchronous activities with synchronous opportunities, such as group work and live sessions. Representation can be addressed by dividing content into smaller, manageable modules and presenting information in different formats. For example, transcripts, presentation slides, or other materials can be provided as alternatives to videos or live classes. Action and Expression can be supported by giving learners different ways to participate, complete activities, and demonstrate their understanding.
One of the challenges may be learners’ different levels of proficiency with digital tools. To address this, facilitators should select accessible, user-friendly technology and provide clear instructions and support. Another challenge may involve learners who speak English as a second language. Providing slides and other materials before live sessions can give learners additional time to review the content. Captions, transcripts, and text-to-speech tools can also provide additional ways to access and understand information.