Teacher Tea
Unlocking Student Potential With UDL
Is Universal Design for Learning (UDL) another professional development fad, or is it something that can substantially change how we teach?
In Educational Leadership’s “Thriving in the Zone of Productive Struggle,” Lee Ann Jung argues that teachers can indeed create a more engaging learning environment by using the UDL framework, and that UDL empowers all learners by creating inclusive and accessible learning environments. She emphasizes the importance of “productive struggle” in deep learning and the development of self-efficacy.
A key point that Jung makes is that UDL incorporates multiple means to engage students. The effort of grappling with challenging tasks is essential for deep learning, and while UDL aims to reduce barriers for students, it's important that teachers avoid removing all struggle. Jung describes how successes achieved through struggle contribute to self-efficacy. Engaging students in tasks slightly beyond their current abilities but achievable with support is the goal, as both insufficient challenge and overwhelming difficulty can hinder learning.
Jung also takes time to review the basics, like the difference between “accommodations” and “modifications”: accommodations support without changing success criteria, while modifications alter them. Not all choices are equally beneficial, so students should be guided to become self-aware and self-direct their learning. Jung recommends introducing a menu of options that require varying levels of challenge. Students need the productive struggle in order to develop resilience and a growth mindset, and Jung stresses the importance of finding the right balance between support and challenge.
Productive struggle encourages deeper learning and long-term success. While it's important for students to enjoy the learning process, comfort doesn't lead to significant growth. If we want students to think critically and persevere through difficulties, they need to encounter challenges. This builds resilience and the ability to apply knowledge in new situations. Ultimately, productive struggle helps students become independent learners who are equipped to tackle future challenges.