UDL versus DI

Video Transcription

Hi, my name is Ashley, and today's lesson is titled UDL versus DI. In today's lesson, we will look at the similarities and differences of UDL, also known as Universal Design for Learning, and DI, better known as Differentiated Instruction. We pay special attention to who is it for, and what does it do.

Let's go ahead and begin. Some educators may have the thought that differentiated instruction is the same as implementing Universal Design for Learning. But that is not actually true. While the two models are similar, they are also different.

Who is it for? UDL addresses the needs of all students. Instruction is designed so that modifications can apply to all students, regardless of their individual abilities or needs. Differentiated instruction more so enhances instruction for individual students and looks at individual needs.

What does it do? Well, UDL builds in modifications during the planning stage. Early on, goals and methods are taken in consideration, to see how they can be customized for students. With differentiated instruction, teachers are able to differentiate content according to student readiness, interests, and student profiles.

Now, let's see what the two learning approaches have in common. The number one goal between these two approaches is the support that's given to students to achieve maximal growth. High quality learning is provided through instruction and content. Both models provide flexibility and the what, why, and how of learning.

Let's recap today's lesson. We talked about the similarities and differences of UDL and DI. UDL addresses students universally, where DI addresses the needs of individual students. In spite of who the learning model is actually for, they both support growth of students and provide high quality instruction by offering flexibility and customization.

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