Universal Design Practices

Universal design is ensuring that all of our educational programs and experiences serve all students.  We, as educators, need to meet the needs of all of our students.  There are so many ways that people describe Universal Design, but all of them focus on the fact that every student needs to be given the opportunity to be successful, no matter what challenges they may have.

I think that diffentiation and Universal Design are very similar.  Click on this link to see how they have been compared.  By differentiating our teaching and assessment, we ensure that all students are able to access the curriculum material and by differentiating our assessment, we ensure that students can be successful. In a school where Universal Design Practices are put into action, students are able to overcome their limitations.

Universal Design Practices at our school

1.       Ramps for wheelchairs.

We do not have any children in a wheelchair right now, however, in the past we have had students who have undergone operations where they have had to be in a wheelchair.  The ramps allow them access to any room in the school.  As well, any visitors requiring wheelchairs can easily access any classroom they are there to visit or attend any celebrations or sporting events occurring in the gym.

2.       Power access automatic door openers.

We have wall switches that allow students or visitors in a wheelchair to get through any doors with the touch of a button.  We have some students on crutches right now and by using this switch it is much easier and safer for them to get through the doors.

3.       Sound Systems

We currently have three classrooms with a sound system.  This allows children who may have hearing or listening difficulties to access the information from the teacher.  This is essential for some students, but benefits all students.

4.       Homework Club

Every first recess and a few lunch hours a week, we offer a homework club for our students.  Students are able to go there to get extra support to enhance their learning or to work on collaborative projects.

5.       Desks and chairs

Desks are all adjustable to meet the needs for all students.  As well, chairs have balls on the bottom for those students sensitive to the noise that they would make.  In addition, we have one student who has undergone surgery for his Scoliosis and our school purchased a more comfortable chair to meet his needs.

6.       Technology available

We have many technology tools available for students.

-Computers

-ipads

-netbooks

-software available on the computers and netbooks

-ipads have many apps on them to meet students needs

Students who have been identified with exceptionalities can also be granted technology tools to meet their needs.  I have a student in my class with a board purchased ipad and two students in Grade 5 with board purchased ipads, as well as one student in Grade 8 with a board purchased laptop.