Common Misconceptions

  1. UDL is another word for DI
    Differentiated instruction is just one aspect of UDL. Tomlinson (2001) explains that differentiated instruction is the application of specific lesson planning as well as multiple learning approaches to support all types of learners. The main difference is that differentiation is a strategy that supports educators to address the individual learning needs of each learner.
  2. UDL is only for learners with disabilities
     UDL supports both educators and learners by removing barriers to learning that support inclusive teaching practices. UDL provides learners in a large student body to all have access to learning that supports a wide variety of diverse need. UDL is a useful pedagogy, regardless of classroom composition. What benefits learners with disabilities, benefits all learners.
  3.  Using UDL can lower academic rigour
    UDL does not replace regular classroom programming. UDL practices support classroom practices by providing learners with multiple means of representation; multiple means of action and expression as well as multiple means of engagement. Some argue that academic rigour increases, as learners are encouraged to express their understanding in multiple ways.

4. UDL has no research behind it
UDL research has been conducted in several fields. The framework of UDL research has followed the fields of cognitive science, cognitive neuroscience. The guidelines of UDL  are developed as a result of intensive research and investigation.

5. In order to make UDL work, you must have the use of Technology
While technology can gravely support effective learning in classrooms today, it is not necessary. Educators can continue to support the learning of all students with no-technology or low-tech options, whichever are available.

6. UDL is just good teaching
Using UDL does not automatically result in good teaching. UDL principles provide educators with a clear framework that encourages and informs intentional teaching practice and inclusive pedagogy. When exploring effective teaching, both educators and learners are provided with opportunities for meaningful assessment of learning.

7.If you purchase products and materials, then you are doing UDL
UDL is a framework supported by research. It is a set of principles which support and guide effective teaching, however it is not a program that can be purchased. Products and strategies to support UDL can be helpful, however they are not an essential part of UDL implementation. educators use.

References:

All UDL: Universal Design for Learning

The Inclusion Lab (2021). https://blog.brookespublishing.com/

Tomlinson, C. (2001).