Overview Link to this section
Learning occurs at the point of challenge. With each task or learning opportunity, support every student to find a way in (“access”) and be challenged (“demand”) to think or produce in new or expansive ways. This concept is also known as designing for a “low floor and a high ceiling”. Avoid over-scaffolding or simply asking students to memorize or receive information. Ultimately, we want each and every student to carry the cognitive load within the classroom.
Supporting Equitable Access & Demand
Link to this section
What Is Universal Design for Learning?
A brief explanation of the origins of UDL and its core concepts
Universal Design for Learning
Find out how the UDL framework guides the design of instructional goals, assessments, methods, and materials that can be customized and adjusted to meet individual needs.
Reflections on Implementing UDL in An Elementary Classroom
A panel of UDL experts takes you inside a fifth-grade classroom to show a classroom teacher applying the principles and guidelines of UDL.
Scaffolding Strategies
When teachers break instruction up into manageable chunks and provide support structures, it makes learning more accessible for all students.
Productive Struggle
When students grapple with challenging problems, their confusion and frustration can lead to more durable learning.
Reflection Questions Link to this section
- How can focusing on equitable access and demand develop academic ownership and honor students' experiences?
- What do access and demand currently look like in your practice? What is working well for students? How do you know?
- What are the implications for your own practice? What will you do first?
This page was last updated on May 17, 2023