THE EARTH SYSTEM SCIENCE IDEABOOK: AN ONLINE RESOURCE FOR UNIVERSAL DESIGN AND ACCESS IN THE GEOSCIENCES

The Earth System Science Ideabook is an online resource library that promotes equitable learning in the geosciences by supporting educators in understanding and applying universal design principles to geoscience instruction. The centerpiece of the Ideabook is a collection of earth system science learning activities developed by high school science teachers in collaboration with special education teachers and college faculty in education and the sciences. The activities use universal design principles and also include specific accommodation ideas for students with disabilities. Each activity is categorized to be consistent with the search criteria of the Digital Library for Earth System Education, and includes a review tool that allows users to comment on the educational effectiveness of the lesson. Science content is categorized by earth “sphere” and the major themes of earth system science, such as energy flow and biogeochemical cycling. Additional resources include a bibliography of universal design and science education for students with disabilities, a resource list for assistive technology and scientific equipment, and strategies for supporting persons with disabilities in science courses and careers. The Ideabook was created using a web-based tool that allows teachers and project staff to collaborate in the design, review, and revision of lessons. Project results suggest that engaging science teachers in the development of universally designed lessons is an effective model for professional development in equity. Teachers participating in the project report increased awareness of pedagogical strategies that support equitable learning, and a change in their teaching practices in the classroom to reach a more diverse group of learners.