USING THE UNIVERSAL DESIGN FOR LEARNING FRAMEWORK TO MAKE THE GEOSCIENCES ACCESSIBLE TO ALL

Through this presentation, researchers will review various ways in which K-12 and Higher Education (HE) educators can use the Universal Design for Learning (UDL) framework as a way of supporting all learners, especially those with special needs. We will explore ways in which the UDL framework can be implemented into geoscience lessons through adaptations in the areas of representation, engagement, and action and expression. Although there is no agreed upon geoscience education model that is designed to meet all students' needs, the UDL framework can be used to teach to the strengths of all students, whether they have disabilities or not. Through the use of UDL principles, the researchers will explore how geoscience educators can adapt their practices in a way that supports students with varied abilities and experiences. This presentation sets out to highlight the need for educators to adopt and implement UDL practices that increases the accessibility of geoscience education by adapting materials and the providing multiple means of engagement with geoscience content. The researchers will share strategies and approaches that support students with special needs in the geoscience classroom and will provide several instructional activities that illustrate how UDL can be used to support all geoscience learners.