Supporting Busy Educators
This tool started as an easy to use Google site. This site covered explanations around Universal Design of Learning (UDL) and assistive technology (AT), which is especially helpful for general education teachers. After evaluating the tools, however, I chose a redesign of this content to be the focus of my capstone project.
My guiding questions:
How could I create a more immersive learning experience for teachers?
How could these modules continue to be presented in appropriate chunks of information?
How could this information be as relevant and easy to implement as possible?
Evolution of an Idea
The Google Site
Click here to visit it.
This site includes:
Explanation of UDL and AT
Connection between tool and skill area (reading, writing, math, executive dysfunction)
Pros and cons of each tool
UDL connection for each tool
Background photo created by freepik - www.freepik.com
Brainstorming
I toyed around with the idea of designing a professional development session, redesigning the website, and creating a one-off training. But still, there was an element of interactivity missing.
Asynchronous LMS
Finally, I decided to create a group of modules in Canvas.
There are four modules in total (three for specific tools and one for introduction to UDL/AT). I also decided to hone in on tools that support executive functioning skills. I chose this area because it is something that all students I have worked with could work on, and the tools can be implemented for all students.
Each tool module contains a checklist of assignments, an introductory PowerPoint, an opportunity to try out the tool in a low stakes environment, and then a written reflection on how teachers could bring this tool into their classroom.