Elements of Universal Design Learning (UDL)

Universal Design Learning (UDL) has been pushing flexibility in learning for all students. Instead of breaking down only equity and equality, the same opportunity is for everyone. Students can develop themselves to a better position and narrow down the exact privileged that used to be only for those in the mainstream clan. There are two types of elements in UDL that are catching my attention: choice assessments and flexible environments. 

I choose choice assessments because this is something that I have been looking for when I was a student in school. I understand that teachers are bound to the school's authorities and the government. Still, somehow, it would be great to experience something from the teacher that can provide students with new agendas. Having multiple choice of assessments means students are not constrained to deliver the ideas or work in one way only. Freedom of choice will allow them to demonstrate the intensity of their understanding of the subjects with their ways without disregarding their academic accuracy. It is essential in today's classroom due to the enormous differences between students. Teachers need to assess their students in various ways that reflect their learning instead of students' barriers. If I can use this technique in my classroom one day, I would like to develop a few submitting choices. It can be writing an essay, a video, or a presentation. I believe there is no limit to students' creativity, and I would like to embrace their dedication in finishing the work.

The second choice is to have a flexible environment in the classroom. It might be more complex than it looks like, as the school system in Malaysia is very systematic. Still, however, every year, we can see that the system evolves and follows the current situation. As we are still in the pandemic, having a flexible learning environment is crucial. Students used to wake up early in the morning to go to class; meanwhile, today, they might only need to open their gadgets and watch the recorded lecture. It might sound a little unfair and too easy for the students. Still, teachers and students need to adjust themselves in any situation. However, as soon as we get back to the "normal" norm, having a flexible environment is better for students' mental health. In this way, students can prepare themselves for the workload and fix their time management in schoolwork.

Overall, I think Universal Design Learning is a massive step to a better education system without prejudice. Teachers do not have to take action to follow the stage of their students. Instead, everyone receives the same convenience that would not burden any students regardless of their background. When everyone uses the exact learning structure, students will appreciate the beauty of an education without competing with anyone.