Guest Bio

Dr. Novak is an internationally renowned education consultant, an author, adjunct professor at UPenn, and a former Assistant Superintendent of Schools in Massachusetts. Dr. Novak has more than 19 years of experience in teaching and administration, a doctorate in curriculum and teaching, and is the author of 8 published books, including the best-selling education books, UDL Now!, Equity By Design, and UDL and Blended Learning. 

 

Episode Summary

In this episode Katie Novak and I talk about intrapersonal variability and facing the skill-breakdown that often comes with starting on your UDL journey. She helps us understand the connection between UDL and equity and also how to ditch labels and focus on students as individuals. 

 

Timestamps

Where does Katie’s UDL passion stem from? [2:51]

Facing skill-breakdown in the face of inclusion [4:01]

Effects of allowing students to make decision for themselves [5:07]

What is UDL?  [7:46]

Roots in architecture [8:23]

Embrace intrapersonal variability [10:16]

Firm goals, period. [10:50]

Can learners really self-differentiate? [11:01]

Your most beneficial source of growth [12:39]

Firm goals, flexible means [13:00]

A career commitment [13:30]

The connection between UDL and equity [17:23]

The general education classroom as the least restrictive environment [18:15]

Labels don’t have meaning? [19:41]

Katie’s universally designed breakfast [20:32]

A child should be able to consent to their care [22:14]

Get to know Katie’s favorite teacher, Mrs. Krause [25:09]

 

Resources:

Novak Education

What is UDL? Infographic

30 Universally Designed Lesson Plans for Online Teachers

The Science Behind UDL