UDL VS. DIFFERENTIATION

UDL VS. DIFFERENTIATION

M. Medlock

July 31, 2014

Wk. 4 Disc. 1

Engagement

Blending

References:

Puckett, K (2013). Differentiating Instruction: A Practical Guide. Bridgepoint Education: San Diego, CA.

STEEL, ALEX; LAURENS, JULIAN; HUGGINS, ANNA. University of New South Wales Law Journal. 2013, Vol. 36 Issue 1, p30-55. 26p.

Katz, Jennifer; Sugden, Ron. Canadian Journal of Educational Administration and Policy, n141 May 2013. (EJ1008728

I would use Assessable Class Participation (ACP) as a means to get students to students to demonstrate their prior knowledge on a subject and their backgrounds. For example, we will discuss topics closely related the lesson and get all students to participate when really they are being evaluated. They will think it's just class participation but it will really be a way to assess them (Steel, Huggins, Laurens 2013).

I envision blending these two strategies in my classroom by switching off periodically which strategy I use. One week I will use UDL to give everybody equal access to the same curriculum and the next week I will switch it up with Differentiated instruction and meet students exactly where they are. This method will become our routine.

I would present new information to students using the UDL approach which is using multiple means of representation such as using technology, writing, and expression as a way to introduce new assignments and activities. Cooperative learning I believe is a good way to keep students engaged because it involves group work and interacting with others. Therefore I would group students together with their friends or those that share the same interests as them as a privilege and means to cooperate.

Compare & Contrast

UDL VS. DIFFERENTIATION

DEFINITIONS:

According to Puckett, Differentiation is an inclusive process in which specific to the student and their needs. In this type of classroom the teachers make all students feel equal (Puckett 2013).

UDL how ever is a broad range of concepts in which all students have equal access to in regards to curriculum and learning opportunities. UDL provides flexible learning environments, while Differentiation provides flexible learning opportunities

They both however support each other in agreeing that each student learns differently. They are both strategies are student-centered. They both provide multiple means of opportunities for students to learn. They both require planning ahead and are inclusive practices(Katz, Sugden 2013).

UDL: Defined as “a set of principles for curriculum development that gives all individuals equal opportunities to learn” (CAST, 2012).

Differentiation: Is when an instructor meets a student at their current level of academics and plans and implements lesson plans around the student