IDEIA requires schools to implement Universal Design in the classroom. Nevertheless, Universal Design is not well defined or widely implemented. CAST, a not-for-profit organization that is dedicated to promoting Universal Design for Learning ["UDL"] defines it as "[e]mbedded features that help those with disabilities eventually benefit everyone. UDL uses technology's power and flexibility to make education more inclusive and effective for all." Some obvious examples are curb cuts (usable for baby strollers and wheelchairs) and closed captioning which can support literacy and those with hearing impairments.
In some schools around the Washington D.C. area teachers are using signed letters and words to better manage their classes. Students flash a signed letter to the teacher such as "B" for bathroom or "L" for library and the teacher responds with a sign or other gesture, which allows him or her to go on with the lesson without interruption.
Perhaps without even realizing it, these teachers are using UDL for more effective classroom management. Special education methods when used creatively in the classroom can benefit all students and the teacher. Similarly, I have effectively advocated for a visual behavior system that was aimed at a student with autism, also proved highly effective for the entire the class without stigmatizing the "target student." It is nice to see a school that views all students as part of one common community of learners, where methods from special education seamlessly cross-over to the entire class. It might even be fun to see teachers flashing signs like a third base coach down the road, so long as they do not flash the universal sign to throw a student out of the class (game).
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