My guest today is Tim Batiuk. He’s been an online teacher and currently is chief technology officer at SYS Education LLC. Tim is one of us. He has taught at the elementary level online and currently works to support and drive teachers forward in their use of technology to meet the needs of all students. He’s passionate about UDL and is always willing to help educators implement the framework. 

 

In this episode we take a deep dive into UDL - universal design for learning. This isn’t a gimmick or “thing of the moment” but a way of thinking about Engagement, Representation and Expression. It’s a framework for thinking and planning that requires us to look through a lens larger than our own personal lived experiences, preferences or needs. This is maybe the most important episode of the season. There’s so much to learn!

 

Timestamps:

Why is Tim so passionate about UDL? [02:38]

Accessibility is great! [3:48]

Who is speech to text for? [4:20]

How does UDL and ADA connect? [5:00]

Tim’s thoughts on pre planned accessibility [5:32]

Why is UDL important and relevant? [7:00]

How UDL breaks down barriers and helps create equity [7:26]

How does UDL look to students? [9:11]

UDL is difficult but we do the work [10:15]

How does a teacher incorporate UDL in their planning? [11:15]

What is a question bucket? [14:18]

Tim’s tips for visual presentation [17:40]

What about students who need more processing time? [20:57]

What’s the best way to provide a hyperlink? [22:10]

The importance of a teacher’s voice [24:35]

What does expression mean in terms of UDL? [28:20]

Reflecting as a means of doing better next time [30:30]

Tim’s call to action! [31:40]

 

Resource Links:

CAST’s UDL Guidelines - rb.gy/krzyu9

CAST’s plan to update the guidelines - rb.gy/x4xea4

Tim’s Question Basket Discussion Example - rb.gy/qvsrgb