Principle of Representation Guideline 2- Language and Symbols

(This a series on Universal Design for Learning)

Universal Design for Learning

Principle of Representation - Guideline 2 - Language & Symbols

The first principle of Universal Design for Learning, ‘provide multiple means of representation”, help promote an inclusive learning environments on many levels. When developing a course and focusing on this principle, there are three guidelines to follow. They are:

1. Perception
2. Language and Symbols
3. Comprehension.

We are now going to take a deeper the second guideline. 

The second guideline, Language and Symbols, focuses on maintaining clarity about the content provided. How people interpret language or symbols can vary greatly depending on their frame of reference.  For example, a picture may have two different meanings depending differing cultural backgrounds. When content is provided in only one representation, inequalities may arise because not all learners share the same frame of reference. Part of supplying multiple representations is to clarify the content being presented. As you develop the material be sure that you can meet the following criteria:

1. Clarify your terms (vocabulary and symbols).
2. Support decoding mathematical notation, symbols, and other text.
3. Promote understanding across languages.
4. Illustrate through multiple media

By adopting this instructional strategy, more learners benefit. The alternative representations provided both promote accessibility as well as add clarity and comprehensibility for all learners.