What does "universal design for learning" (UDL) aim to accomplish?

Universal Design for Learning (UDL) aims to accommodate diverse learning needs through multiple means by providing a framework that supports varied learning preferences and abilities. This approach recognizes that students learn in different ways and engages them through multiple modalities—such as visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learning.

UDL promotes flexibility in teaching strategies, materials, and assessments, ensuring that all students can access the curriculum and demonstrate their understanding. By incorporating options for engagement, representation, and action and expression, educators can create an inclusive learning environment that minimizes barriers to learning and maximizes opportunities for all students to succeed. This principle is rooted in the belief that education should be designed from the outset to meet the needs of all learners, rather than retrofitting solutions for individuals after the fact.

Other options do not align with the core intent of UDL. For instance, standardizing teaching methods does not allow for the flexibility UDL promotes, while providing differentiated instruction without specific goals would lack a focused framework necessary for effective learning. Eliminating the need for assessments would contradict the need for understanding student progress and learning outcomes effectively.