UDL for DHH Students

Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is a framework that aims to foster an inclusive learning environment and make learning accessible to all students by catering to different learning styles. Learn more about general UDL Guidelines at the link below.

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Needs of DHH Students

When implementing UDL in DHH classrooms, educators must first consider the needs of DHH students. Potential needs include:

VARIOUS MODES OF COMMUNICATION

VISUAL SUPPORTS

LANGUAGE LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES

ATTENTION SUPPORTS

PROPER AMPLIFICATION

MULTI-SENSORY LEARNING

Engagement

Providing opportunities to engage with educational material in a variety of ways

Multi-sensory language lessons, including turn taking, peer to peer interaction, movement and action
Small group learning activities
Access to a quiet space to work
U-shaped desk/table arrangements to promote sight of everyone’s face
Optimal acoustics, live captioning software, ear level frequency modulation (FM) systems

Representation

Presenting educational curriculum in a variety of ways

Thematic lessons with multiple ways to engage in the topic and concepts through sight, touch, smell, sound, and taste
Examples: Songs
Visual representation of spoken language (open/closed captions and descriptions) on all media and presentations/lectures
Early access to materials before information is presented in the classroom
Have materials available in print, video, and through teacher and peer interaction

Action & Expression

Providing a variety of ways to demonstrate knowledge

Various assessment strategies that support every learner’s unique educational needs
Options for written/spoken/signed tests
Presentations or projects to demonstrate mastery of a concept
Back channel to ask questions, visual presentation in slides, Google Draw, etc.

(Taylor, K., 2020; Taylor, Neild, & Fitzpatrick, 2023)

Ways to Implement UDL for DHH Students