Wednesday, September 13, 2023

Principle of Engagement - Guideline 2 - Criterion 3

 

Universal Design for Learning

Principle of Engagement - Guideline 2 - Criterion 3

When developing a course using the third principle of Universal Design for Learning, there are three specific guidelines to assist us. The second, Sustaining Effort and Persistence addresses maintaining focus and determination.

Criterion 3 of this guideline advocates that we promote Collaboration and Foster a Community

Communication and collaboration are key skills for students that will both benefit them in school environments and their professional careers.  These skills may be only tertiary among the goals of the course, but those are indeed goals for all learners. Like other skills, there will be a variety in their competence in the class. Nonetheless, mentoring through peers can increase one-on-one support that will benefit both the mentee and the mentor.  Crafting collaborative exercises offers an excellent opportunity for leaner growth, and the development of both collaborative and communication skills.

Be sure to structure activities to significantly increase the support for sustained engagement. Provide flexible groupings to better multiple and differentiated roles. It will also provide opportunities to learn how to work effectively with others – a vital skill in or out of the classroom. Learners can select the level most suited for themselves when options are available in how they can build and utilize these skills.

When crafting activities, consider:

  • Supplying prompts that assist learners in understanding when and how to ask for help from either peers or the instructor.
  • Creating cooperative learning groups with clearly defined:
    • goals,
    • roles, and
    • responsibilities
  • Encouraging peer interaction and support opportunities, such as peer tutors
  • Helping develop a community of learning that engage participants with common interests
  • Setting expectations for group work through various channels, such as grading rubrics and explicit objectives

By following these suggestions, your course will assist students in communicating and expressing their knowledge, as well as being in line with the Principle of Engagement in the Theory of Universal Design for Learning.

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