Using Assistive Technology in the classroom is a great way of implementing a Universal Design for Learning (UDL). Assistive Technology (AT) is technology that is used to personalize learning for a variety of different learning styles. This goes along nicely with UDLs because the purpose of a UDL is to help create a curriculum that teaches to a diverse group of students. In order to do this a teacher must think about the different learning styles in their classroom. Then the teacher needs to develop an individualized AT plan for each student that will help them all learn the same material at the students' own pace, or by adhering to their learning style. Students can use their computers to help them read books, create concepts maps, or help navigate the computer; all used to help make sure students learn the material they need accommodated by their learning style. This also helps students and teachers represent the curriculum in many different forms, express themselves using many different forms of technology, and become engaged in the material. These are the three bases of UDL, and can all be met by using AT in your classroom.
This concept goes along with Standard 1 of the ISTE Standards for Students. Specifically 1c which states that students "use models and simulations to explore complex
systems and issues" (ISTE Student Standards 1). By using AT in a UDL the students must use the technology provided to them to explore the different ideas and concepts presented to them. The students must do this by using different model such as a concept map, a digital narrator, etc. These different technological tools are there to help students explore ideas and come up with their own while also learning using a style that fits them best.
Ahrens, K. (2011). Build an assistive technology toolkit. Learning & Leading with Technology, 39(3), 22-24.
http://www.udlcenter.org/resource_library/videos/udlcenter/udl#video0/
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