Let’s dive into the dynamic duo of UDL and DI! In this episode of the Education Table with Katie Novak, we’ll tackle the relationship between Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and Differentiated Instruction (DI). We’ll look at each educational framework’s origin, why a traditional one-size-fits-all approach is not effective, and Katie will share concrete strategies for implementing UDL and DI. 

By the end of this episode, you’ll understand how UDL and DI can revolutionize inclusive education when used together.

Join the movement. Transform education. Hit play on The Education Table.

In this Episode of The Education Table, Katie Novak tackles the question, is there evidence that inclusion is good for all learners? She discusses the importance of creating inclusive learning environments and highlights the benefits of an inclusive classroom setting for all students - including those with and without disabilities. She examines the stance on inclusion from the United Nations and dives into evidence from the Herir reports on the effectiveness of student outcomes and explains how Universal Design for Learning (UDL), Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS), and differentiated instruction play an integral role in its success. Katie will provide strategies for implementing inclusive practices, such as using diagnostic assessments, leveraging blended learning models, and shifting to student-led learning.

This episode is best for those seeking to understand the benefits of inclusive learning environments and for educators that are looking for strategies to implement into their classrooms to create a space where all students have the opportunity to succeed. 

Join the movement. Transform education. Hit play on The Education Table.

In this episode of The Education Table, Katie Novak answers your burning question, How can you support student reflection in the classroom? She’ll explore the value of daily reflection and offer practical strategies that teachers can implement to help students build strong decision-making skills and become more capable of making informed choices. The goal is that by the end of this episode, listeners will be armed with the knowledge to help students reflect effectively across all subject areas.

Join the movement. Transform education. Hit play on The Education Table.

In this episode of The Education Table with Katie Novak, we’ll discuss the concept of building a more student-led classroom and share strategies for implementing this approach. The research and positive impact are clear, and we’re laying it all out on the table, including a story about how Katie transitioned her morning routine from a madhouse to a kid-led cafe. 

This episode is for teachers looking to find balance while students experience more responsibility, success, and engagement. It will also benefit those who want to empower students to take charge of their own learning, foster accountability, and help prepare them with future-ready skills (all while sipping coffee while it’s still hot!). 

Stay tuned for future episodes as we share effective strategies for creating student-led classrooms with UDL and blended learning. Join the movement. Transform education. Hit play on The Education Table.

In this episode of The Education Table with Katie Novak, we’ll examine the impact of grade-level standards and high expectations on student achievement. We’ll also review the importance of firm goals and teacher clarity, drawing from personal experiences and research, and, as always, share concrete strategies for implementation. This episode will highlight blended learning models, including station rotation, the power of UDL, a discussion about decoding, and the value of diagnostic assessments.

This episode is for teachers who want to enhance student engagement and create purposeful learners. It will also benefit those looking to empower learners and improve communication with their students.

Stay tuned for future episodes as we share student engagement strategies and use data to inform decisions. Join the movement. Transform education. Hit play on The Education Table.

In this episode of The Education Table with Katie Novak, we’ll tackle the research behind learning styles (or the lack of it!) and dive into the subject of learner variability. By the end of the episode, you’ll walk away with strategies to use today to address learner variability in your learning environment.

This episode is for teachers who are looking to connect with their learners as well as for those looking to create inclusive, innovative and effective environments. It’s also perfect for anyone who has ever said or heard anyone say: visual learner, kinesthetic learner, auditory learner, etc. 

In this episode, we just scratch the surface of learner variability. Stay tuned for future episodes as we unpack student variability and use data to inform decisions. Join the movement. Transform education. Hit play on The Education Table.

In this Episode of The Education Table with Katie Novak, we’ll tackle the question, when designing instruction for our learners (our students, our staff, etc.), just how much choice is too much? We’ll cover what happens when we offer too much choice and we’ll take a look at the psychology and research behind the statistics as we outline the ideal number of choices we provide to our learners along with strategies to increase the outcomes of our learners. 

This episode is best for those seeking to create flexible, inclusive learning environments while avoiding the pitfalls of choice paralysis. Examples include scenarios involving students that may struggle with visual processing, decoding at grade level, and multilingual learners. 

Join the movement. Transform education. Hit play on The Education Table.

In the premiere episode of The Education Table, join me, Katie Novak, as I answer the question, what is Universal Design for Learning (UDL)? I'm going to answer this question in three parts, and in under 10 minutes. First, I'm going to tell you a story and share an anecdote about the value of UDL in our personal lives. Then I'm going to dive into the research and statistics so that you can understand how incredibly important it is for us to use this evidence-based framework. And lastly, I'll share concrete strategies so you feel prepared to implement UDL, now Let's dive in! 

Welcome to The Education Table, a micro podcast that serves as a destination for insights into inclusive and innovative education, all in 10 minutes or less. Hosted by Katie Novak, a lifelong educator, author, and mother of four, the podcast is dedicated to fostering inclusive and innovative educational systems. Each episode offers a mix of stories, statistics, and strategies designed to establish balance for teachers and enhance outcomes for all learners.

The Education Table addresses your pressing questions about education with a touch of sass. Featuring evidence-based strategies and frameworks such as Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS), along with innovative interventions and leadership practices that truly make a difference, this podcast aims to provoke thought, inspire action, and drive change, offering the insights and tools necessary to transform educational experiences for every learner.

Join the movement. Transform education. Hit play on The Education Table.