Monday, September 5, 2016

UDL Editions by CAST: Academic Freedom and Life Long Learning

CAST's UDL Editions ( http://udltechtoolkit.wikispaces.com ) strikes me as a brilliant 

resource to boost a wide variety of reading and reading comprehension skills while 

simultaneously showcasing classic texts from world literature. My background in literacy 

education and my love of reading attracted me to this resource designed to present classics 

using a flexible online interface with individualized supports for all students. For example, 

when viewing Lincoln's Gettysburg Address in this site, a student can select a reading level 

ranging from minimum to maximum support.  Then, using "stop and think" prompts, the 

student can easily access information about concepts such as literary devices, themes, 

points to ponder, and links to additional background information relating to The Gettysburg 

Address.  In addressing the concept of freedom, one of the prompts suggests that students 

consider Lincoln's message of "freedom as an entity that lives and thrives."  I see the 

practice of UDL as an academic freedom that allows all students to learn successfully, live 

fully, and thrive personally.  I believe that enriching learning experiences gained through 

resources like CAST's UDL Editions also promote the important commitment to lifelong 

learning that is one of Cabrini's Core Values.  

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