LEARNING VARIABILITY AND UDL
Conversation Kit #3
Learning variability is the predictable ways that human learning varies, and because it's predictable we can plan for it. As professional educators, we need to understand learning variability and use that understanding to design learning environments so all learners can access and engage in learning.
In this module we'll explore learning variability, why it matters to learning design in higher education, and how it connects to the three principles of Universal Design for Learning.
LEARNING GOAL
Explain learning variability and how you can use it to plan for accessible and engaging student learning.
DISCUSS
1. As a learner, what is your ideal learning environment?
2. What learning needs or differences do you notice in your students? What similarities do you notice? Some areas might be memory, attention, reading level, social skills, verbal expression, technology skills.
3. How do you respond to and support learning differences in your students? This could be specific teaching practices, learning strategies, assessments, materials etc.
READ
“Right now because we believe in the myth of average, we believe that opportunity means providing equal access to standardized educational experiences,” he says. “However, since we know that nobody is actually average, it is obvious that equal access to standardized experiences is not nearly enough to provide equal opportunity. To me, if you accept the reality of individuality, then it means that we have to rethink how we define equal opportunity in education and beyond.” Todd Rose
What does this quote challenge about your current understanding of learning differences?
As educators we need more than “equal access to standardized experiences.” How do we un-standardize the learning experience? In our classrooms? In higher ed?
WATCH
In this 18 minute Tedx Talk, The Myth of Average, by Dr. Todd Rose, he discusses how designing to the edges works for fighter pilots and learners.
How might you design to the edges of learning?
Follow up: what 10 dimensions of learning might you consider to better design to the edges for your students?
DO
Create a visual model or illustrate an analogy that explains predictable learning variability to your colleagues.
REFLECT AND EXTEND
To you as an educator, how important is keeping updated on current information and research about how the human brain learns?
What is exciting about learning more about learning? What is overwhelming?
As a learner, how do you wish learning environments would be designed?