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Universal Design & Neurodiversity: Creating Belonging with Tech

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Interactive Session
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Session description

This session shows how Universal Design and technology can open doors for learners with dyslexia, autism, ADHD, and other diverse profiles. Participants will explore practical strategies to support executive functioning, engagement, and belonging, and discover tools to redesign lessons that make learning accessible for learners of every neurotype.

Outline

Session begins with a story to frame neurodiversity and Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and an activity that frames neurodiverse learners as bringing strengths not deficits to the classroom. Attendees discuss challenges, then explore strategies and tech tools that reduce barriers for learners with dyslexia, autism, ADHD. Through a redesign challenge, groups adapt sample lessons using UDL + tech. Session closes with share outs, a reflection, and a takeaway template for inclusive lesson design. Audience engagement occurs every 5–10 minutes through polls, discussions, tech based activities and opps for peer to peer follow up.

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Outcomes

After this session, participants will be able to: (1) Design tech enabled lessons using Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles that reduce barriers for students with dyslexia, autism, ADHD, and other diverse profiles. (2) Apply at least two tech based strategies that support executive functioning, student engagement, and multiple ways of demonstrating learning. (3) Redesign an existing lesson or activity into a more inclusive version and share a plan for fostering belonging and agency.

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Supporting research

(1) Lambert, Rachel. Rethinking Disability: A Strength-Based Approach to Math and Science Learning (2) Eide, Brock & Fernette. The Dyslexic Advantage: Unlocking the Hidden Potential of the Dyslexic Brain (3) Grandin, Temple. Visual Thinking: The Hidden Gifts of People Who Think in Pictures, Patterns, and Abstractions (4) Armstrong, Thomas. The Power of Neurodiversity: Unleashing the Advantages of Your Differently Wired Brain (5) CAST. Universal Design for Learning Guidelines (free online resource)

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Presenters

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STEM Teacher and Curriculum Specialist
Amplify Education

Session specifications

Topic:

Universal Design For Learning

Grade level:

PK-12, PK-2

Audience:

Curriculum Designer/Director, Teacher Development, Teacher

Attendee devices:

Devices useful

Attendee device specification:

Smartphone: Android, iOS, Windows
Laptop: Chromebook, Mac, PC
Tablet: Android, iOS, Windows

Participant accounts, software and other materials:

Attendees only need a connected browser on their device (laptop, tablet, or phone) to participate in collaborative activities. No specific apps or downloads are required.

Subject area:

Interdisciplinary (STEM/STEAM), Special Education

ISTE Standards:

For Educators: Designer
For Students: Empowered Learner

Transformational Learning Principles:

Cultivate Belonging, Ignite Agency