Principle of Action and Expression: Guideline 1 Interaction - UDL version 3

 

The second principle of UDL, "providing means for action and expression”, helps 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. Interaction <formerly Physical Action>
2. Expression and Communication
3. Strategy Development <formerly Executive Function.>

We are now going to take a deeper look.

The first guideline, Interaction, in many ways overlaps with accessibility requirements. 

Often learners are inadvertently limited in the physical interaction when navigating material.   For example, only offering a textbook, or print format, can impose barriers on those with visual impairments.  Offering a digital option that can work with assistive technology is one step towards ensuring everyone can access the materials needed to learn.

While this guideline at first appears to concern itself with navigating the classroom, there are several lessons to be learned when applying it to online learning as well.  When designing curricular materials, and in particular online materials, they should seamlessly interact with assistive technology. It is important to provide materials with which all learners can interact.  Often, internet tools may offer immersive and interactive environments, but do not offer options for those requiring assistive technology to navigate the tool. While many web tools are becoming more aware of accessibility issues, it is important to be ever vigilant.  Minimally you should offer alternatives that ensure students can effectively interact with material needed to learn. Optimally, you will vet the tools and ensure that they supply options for all learners.

Two criteria for meeting this guideline are:

Criterion 1: Vary the methods for response and navigation. Provide multiple means for students to respond, compose material, or select material. 

 Criterion 2: Optimize access to tools and assistive technologies.A significant number of learners use assistive technologies on a regular bases, and it is important to not overlook this.

By promoting an inclusive strategy with multiple means of physical action for navigation, your learning environment will be more accommodating and promote student success.