UDL in 15 Minutes

Looking for a fresh perspective on Universal Design for Learning? Join principal Juan Gallardo as he reveals the connections he discovered between UDL and the ancient Greek concepts of logos, pathos, and ethos. Hear how the hero's journey mirrors student learning and why UDL isn't something we design—it's something we discover within ourselves as humans.

Join Maddy Gentry, Learning Support Teacher at Dresden International School, as she shares how UDL transforms co-teaching through critical lesson planning. Discover her breakthrough moment when vocabulary barriers disrupted a math lesson, leading to powerful insights about proactive barrier identification. Learn practical strategies for implementing UDL one step at a time in diverse classrooms.

Elementary librarian Lauren Boop shares how Universal Design for Learning principles transformed her approach to designing a new library space for early childhood through second grade students. From accessible book displays to student-centered learning stations, discover how UDL creates intentional, barrier-free environments that enhance learner agency and outcomes.

Laura Maly-Schmidt, MYP Coordinator and Deputy Principal at the International School of Dusseldorf, shares her beginner's journey with Universal Design for Learning. Discover how she models UDL principles in leadership meetings, uses AI tools like LUDIA to create accessible materials, and takes practical first steps to support all learners while building an inclusive school culture.

Jane Somanje, a quality assurance officer and National Reading Programme trainer, shares how teachers are embracing UDL to create more inclusive classrooms. Jane shares success stories, discusses challenges like large class sizes, and explains how UDL is improving learning outcomes. Tune in to hear how UDL is making education more equitable and effective!

Katy McBain, head of secondary school learning support at Dresden International School, shares how she and her colleagues empower students by fostering self-advocacy and ownership of learning. She discusses co-creating IEP goals, cognitive coaching, and personalized learning strategies, emphasizing a strengths-based approach to support neurodiverse learners.

Discover how Kisa Laursen transforms co-teaching through Universal Design for Learning (UDL) during this episode of UDL in 15 Minutes. You’ll hear about the 5 statements Kisa and her colleagues created to help every teacher in their building think about and plan for variability. She also talks about inclusive teaching, data-informed strategies, and building collaborative environments that empower students and educators alike.

In this episode of UDL in 15 Minutes, Loui Lord Nelson interviews Tom Tobin, an expert in Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and higher education, as they explore four critical gaps in the UDL 3.0 guidelines. Together, they discuss how to adapt UDL principles for higher education by addressing grassroots assumptions, power dynamics, and the distinct needs of adult learners.

Dalitso Ntambalika, a primary school teacher in Malawi, shares her transformative experiences with Universal Design for Learning (UDL). She shares stories of two students: one who was very quiet and became more engaged through pair-sharing and another who was very, very active and learned new behaviors for learning through positive reinforcement. Dalitso's expereince highlights UDL's effectiveness in diverse classrooms.

Zacham Kabantiok, a dedicated educator from Wauro Jabbe Community School in Northeastern Nigeria, shares how UDL has helped her and other educators transform the lives of out-of-school children, foster inclusive learning environments, and empower students to overcome barriers.

Lillian Nave shares her experiences applying Universal Design for Learning (UDL) at Appalachian State University's new Hickory campus. She emphasizes the importance of flexibility in teaching practices, communication strategies, and support for diverse student needs, particularly for first-generation students, as the university aims to create an inclusive and accessible educational environment.

Martha Dobboh is using UDL to shift her teach training courses so all of her learners understand not only the structure of UDL, but the heart of UDL - to include and value all learners. Hear how UDL has shifted the way her adult learners expereince education and how they are sharing that shift in their own lesson and learning environment design.