2nd Blog post

Universal Design for Learning (UDL):

Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is a framework that ensures an inclusive and diverse learning experience by limiting barriers for all. According to Ron Mace, “Universal Design is the design of products and environments to be usable by all people, to the greatest extent possible, without the need for adaptation or specialized design.” This framework applies to education by designing curriculum that benefits all types of ability. 

The 3 principles of UDL: 

1. Multiple Means of Representation (What of learning) 
2. Multiple Means of Expression (How of learning) 
3. Multiple Means of Engagement (Why of Learning) 

In this Ted Talk, he discusses the importance of Universal design. Using his own experiences as someone who is deaf. An example of Universal design that he uses in this presentation is the invention of automatic doors. Door knobs are not something that is accessible to everyone. The automatic door can be used by everyone, even animals.” This can also be related to learning. Everyone learns in a different way. We must teach in a way that is accessible for everyone’s different learning abilities. “Even if you don’t share the same disability everyone benefits from it” This quote really stuck out for me as it clearly illustrates the importance of Universal Design. Designing lessons that work for everyone from the start, educators reduce barriers, making physical education more accessible and enjoyable for all students. 

The BC Curriculum and Health Education

Big Ideas: What students are expected to understand 

Curricular competencies: What students are expected to do 

Content: What students are expected to know 

The old curriculum was more restrictive which allowed for minimal flexibility in teaching, making catering for all learners very difficult. Now with the new BC Curriculum it allows a lot more freedom for teachers to create lesson plans that accommodate all students. There is an emphasis on students’ critical thinking. It is important not for students to just memorize content but actually understand it. This new curriculum structure aligns with promoting overall health and wellness because it allows students to gain a deeper understanding and forces students to establish lifelong health habits. 

Comprehensive School Health (CSH)

The Comprehensive School Health model is put in place to improve the health and wellbeing for all the students and educators in a school. This model in the broader sense helps creates a positive environment for all that is involved in learning community.

There are Four Pillars of CSH:

1. Relationships and environments
2. Teaching and Learning
3. Community Partnerships
4. Our School Policies

One key aspect of the Comprehensive School Health (CSH) Model is the social and physical environment, which plays a crucial role in student well-being. The video emphasizes that students are often overwhelmed by information and emotions, making it essential to create a calm and consistent environment. As stated, “We need a certain amount of routine, consistency, and calm so that our brain can focus on what’s important and not have to focus on everything that is new and engaging all at the same time.”

A welcoming atmosphere starts with simple gestures, such as a teacher greeting students with “I’m so happy you’re here.” The physical environment also matters—adding natural elements like plants helps purify the air, while pleasant scents can contribute to relaxation. As mentioned in the video, “People want to come into an environment which smells great.” This insight was particularly eye-opening, as I hadn’t considered how scent could influence a positive classroom environment. These small details can significantly impact students’ learning experiences and overall well-being.

I think it is really important to point out how all of these different frameworks are interconnected and go hand in hand. UDL ensures that learning is accessible for all students by offering diverse ways to engage and learn. The BC Curriculum reinforces this by emphasizing flexibility, and critical thinking, allowing educators to adapt lessons to meet diverse needs. CSH extends beyond academics, and focuses on the physical and social environment and overall health, which directly impacts students ability to learn. By integrating these approaches, schools create a well-rounded learning experience where students develop lifelong health and learning habits.