Technology and UDL Repository

Notability is a note-taking app which allows students to record notes in a variety of different ways. The app allows users to type, write with a stylus, or dictate notes through the device's microphone. There are also features which allow users to highlight what they have written and draw on their notes to create tables or organize text. Notability provides a system for users to file their notes into folders which can be color coded, named, and labeled with different icons based on the contents. The use of Notability can promote the principles of the Universal Design for Learning. UDL describes that students should be given a variety of options for expressing their understanding of topics. Notability itself provides options for students in the way they record information. Students can choose to type, write, or speak their notes, essays, or other assignments. For instance, a student could choose to use a stylus to draw out a graphic organizer demonstrating their knowledge of the d...

Kahoot is a tool with which to administer quizzes, surveys, and discussions. Users log in, type in the code for the game (created by the teacher) and join in answering multiple choice questions. Kahoot can be accessed by computer or tablet. Students are timed in their responses to the multiple choice questions. Kahoot is a great way to get students engaged in a lesson, in accordance with UDL principles. For example, a teacher could create a Kahoot with questions that review the previous lesson before moving on to the next. This way, students are engaged in the new lesson and they have the chance to access their background knowledge from previous lessons.

Piktochart is an online tool for creating infographics. Infographics are poster-like presentations to which students can add graphics, images, text, links, and videos to display information. These presentations give students a unique option for displaying their understanding of a topic. Students can compile what they know and design the infographic to suit their communication goals. Piktochart also provides templates for users to select from if they do not want to design their own. Piktochart would be a valuable addition to a classroom that incorporates the principles of UDL into its learning environment. Students could be offered Piktochart as an option for expressing their knowledge on different topics. In the classroom context, a student could choose to create an infographic through Piktochart to present information on a book they read or on a section from a chapter in their textbook. Piktochart could be used to create presentations for any subject area. Students could share their...

Brain Pop is an online tool which provides users with access to over a thousand animated videos about different topics. The topics ranged in subject matter, and cover Social Studies, Science, Mathematics, and other areas. These videos differ based on grade level. For example, videos on lower grade level topics have subtitles and display important content specific vocabulary words with their definitions while videos on higher level topics do not contain these aspects. Videos are accompanied by quizzes to test viewers' understandings of the topics covered. The use of Brain Pop in the classroom supports the UDL principle that students should be offered several different means of engagement in lessons. Showing a Brain Pop video can be an effective way for teachers to hook their students and obtain their attention before teaching them about a specific topic. For example, if a class was about to do a lesson on the properties of the sun, the teacher could show a Brain Pop lesson on the ...

Popplet is an online tool which allows users to create visual representations of ideas. Through this tool, students and teachers can create "mind maps" or graphic organizers to arrange their ideas on different topics. Students can collaborate and create Popplets together. Users can type text and insert different images or videos into the graphic organizers created. There is also a comment function so that students or teachers can comment on others' work in Popplet. The use of Popplet supports UDL principles in the classroom. For example, Popplet can be used by teachers to display information for students. The organization of information in Popplet provides a unique representation of content that will work better than a Powerpoint or bulleted notes. Students could also get the chance to present their own understanding of topics using Popplet. For example, Popplet would be a great tool for students to use to present information that could be presented in a bubble map, lik...

Quizlet is an online tool that allows students to create online set of flashcards. It provides different methods for quizzing users on the flashcard sets they created, including tests and games. The software provides visual and audio ways to interact with the information in the sets of flashcards. Users also get access to other sets of flashcards created by other users. Quizlet is available online or via app. The Quizlet website and app align with principles of Universal Design for Learning. Students can create sets of flashcards for vocabulary lists, spelling tests, and other study guide materials for tests and quizzes. Instead of regular flashcard studying, students can practice mastering the cards through various means such as multiple choice questions, fill-in-the-blank questions, and matching games. This promotes the UDL idea that students should be provided with options for expressing their understanding of content. It also provides students with an engaging experience by allow...