Literature

26 February 2016

Welcome to the February newsletter for NZC Online. This month we highlight Universal Design for Learning (UDL), which is especially relevant as you start to delve into the learning needs of your new class. UDL practices are underpinned by the NZC principle of Inclusion.

Universal Design for Learning (UDL)

Universal Design for Learning, or UDL, is a framework that helps teachers recognise and minimise barriers to learning, and create more flexible and inclusive teaching environments. NZC Online offers three blog posts that explore the origins of UDL and offer ideas on how you can apply this approach to your own teaching.

Introducing Universal Design for Learning
In this blog you can find out about the origins and principles of UDL, and learn how UDL supports the implementation ofThe New Zealand Curriculum.

Universal Design for Learning in action
This blog features the stories of two teachers who use UDL. These teachers share their understandings and application of UDL, and offer a smorgasbord of inclusive ideas and strategies for you to take away and trial in your own classrooms.

My journey with Universal Design for Learning
In this blog, primary school teacher Adele O'Leary shares her first steps in UDL, describing the impact of UDL on her teaching and her learners.

Inclusion package

The principle of inclusion applies to all students in all New Zealand schools. Creating a flexible environment where barriers to learning are minimised and all learners are supported is key. This section draws together research, digital resources, and examples to support schools as they consider the inclusion principle.

“The curriculum is non-sexist, non-racist, and non-discriminatory; it ensures that students’ identities, languages, abilities, and talents are recognised and affirmed and that their learning needs are addressed."

The New Zealand Curriculum, p. 9.

Have you seen?

Registrations are now open for VLN Primary School
The VLN Primary School offers lots of great online programmes & projects to extend learning opportunities for our children. There is also support for schools & clusters who are interested in developing their own online programmes.

Involving your community in curriculum design: Share your ideas
We would love to hear more of your thoughts and questions around school based curriculum design and community engagement. Please join us on Facebook or Twitter @nzcurriculum to continue the discussion.

Down the Back of the Chair survey
The Ministry of Education are interested in hearing from schools, kura and early childhood centres about their experience when ordering MoE resources from the online resource catalogue, Down the Back of the Chair. The survey includes 10 questions and will take about 5-10 minutes to complete. Your response will provide invaluable information about the current service and how we can improve your experience. We would really appreciate your input. Take part in the survey online.