The Indiana Center on Teacher Quality (ICTQ) was created and funded through an Indiana Department of Education SPDG grant. ICTQ seeks to improve educational outcomes for students with and without disabilities by ensuring their access to high quality instruction Pre-K-12. The project uses an implementation science framework to work intensively with districts to build capacity to implement Universal Design for Learning (UDL). Targeted support is provided through regional training's and on-line, self-guided modules are available to all.
The goal of UDL is for educators to evaluate the learning and environment and lesson goals from the very beginning to accommodate variable learners. UDL is not just for students who have learning challenges; rather, it takes into consideration the background and knowledge of all learners, allowing teachers to ensure learner access, build learner skills, and help learners internalize information. UDL is a deep dive into how educators can create a safe, predictable learning environment using the UDL framework to promote accessibility in all aspects of learning. UDL is divided in three main principles:
- Multiple Means of Engagement (the "Why" of learning)
- Multiple Means of Representation (the "What" of learning)
- Multiple Means of Action/Expression (the "How" of learning)