6 Universal Design for Learning Examples
Written by:
Wilson College
• Jul 14, 2026
Neurodivergent students often face challenges in school, not because of their intelligence, but because their brains develop and process information in ways that are different from those of other students. In other words, they think and learn differently. Common types of neurodevelopmental disorders are attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism, dyscalculia, dysgraphia, and dyslexia.
The principles of universal design for learning guide educators in creating strategies that enable these students to access content, participate in learning, and show what they know. Universal design for learning examples include digital materials, game-based activities, structured group work, and printed visual aids.
Earning a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Special Education can prepare future teachers and education professionals with the capabilities they need to be able to create inclusive classrooms where students can overcome their daily challenges and build lasting skills for the future.
What Is Universal Design for Learning?
Universal design for learning, or UDL, is a framework for educators to use to design lesson plans and instructional materials that meet the needs of all learners. According to the Office of Educational Technology, UDL is guided by three main principles:
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Multiple means of representation: Present information in different ways so different students can understand it.
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Multiple means of expression: Provide students with different options for showing what they know.
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Multiple means of engagement: Offer varied ways of motivating and involving students.
By following these principles, educators can design learning environments that encourage all students to participate, help build their confidence, and enable them to feel they have agency in the learning process from the beginning, before challenges arise. Teachers can plan lessons that are flexible, inclusive, and responsive to diverse learners’ needs.
Universal Design for Learning Examples
When teachers apply universal design for learning principles, they proactively encourage their students to learn and make their classrooms more welcoming to students with diverse needs and learning styles. For example, a science teacher might use a virtual tour to explore an aquatic ecosystem, while also offering narrated podcasts for students who learn best through listening.
Through the universal design for learning approach, educators can give their students choices in how they engage with the curriculum content and demonstrate their understanding of it. Following are six universal design for learning examples:
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Interactive Digital Tools. Providing digital materials, including interactive simulations and game-based activities, to support differentiated instruction
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Multisensory Instruction. Presenting information through audio resources, visuals, and hands-on activities
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Collaborative Learning Structures. Structuring group work and peer discussions to encourage collaboration
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Visual Learning Supports. Teaching with printed visual aids and graphic organizers
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Assistive Reading and Writing Tools. Enabling the use of text-to-speech and speech-to-text tools for reading and writing support
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Extended Learning Resources. Providing access to curriculum-related online resources and independent reading materials
While many of these examples rely on technology and digital tools, low-tech resources—such as whiteboards, printed visuals, hands-on demonstrations, and paper organizers—remain effective universal learning design options.
How Can Teachers Use UDL?
When educators offer their students multiple ways to access the curriculum’s content and share their understanding of it, the students are able to focus on what they know, rather than on the limitations they face with any single format. This flexible approach helps educators ensure that all of their students have meaningful opportunities to engage with the material and succeed at school.
Teachers looking to use UDL can take these key steps to help their students succeed in the classroom.
Get to Know Students
Inclusion is at the heart of universal design for learning. Therefore, one of the first steps teachers need to take at the beginning of the school year is to get to know each of their students. The process for gathering information on their students might vary among teachers, but the aim is the same: to understand the students they serve and to identify each students’ disabilities and learning style preferences.
Use Assessment and Comprehension Checks Strategically
Teachers can employ ongoing, low-pressure assessments to help them understand their students’ progress and to guide their daily instruction. Tools such as comprehension questions, informal checks, and exit tickets allow teachers to identify the students’ strengths, address their misunderstandings, and adjust the instruction they provide to them. Activities such as thumbs signals, sticky note summaries, and “would you rather” responses encourage students to show their understanding of the material in different ways, helping teachers adjust the pacing of their instruction and the support they provide as needed.
Integrate Educational Technology Thoughtfully
Teachers can use educational technology, including games and simulations such as a virtual walking tour of a gallery or a historical site, to create interactive learning experiences for their students. These tools enable students to employ multiple forms of expression, which can help reveal their vocabulary knowledge, reasoning abilities, and visual understanding of the material.
When it is used with clear learning goals in mind, technology integrated into lesson plans can enhance students’ engagement with the concepts being taught while allowing them to learn and communicate in the ways that work best for them.
Encourage Collaboration and Choice
By providing students with tools that foster collaboration, teachers can help them move more easily between instruction, practice, and independent work, while allowing them time to process information, practice skills, and receive feedback. Collaborating helps students share what they know, solve problems, and build confidence, while providing teachers with valuable insights into students’ understanding of subjects.
Create Classroom Environments That Benefit All Students
Every student is different. Some students learn best through traditional teaching methods such as reading, writing, and independent work, while others benefit more from watching videos, engaging in group discussions, or doing hands-on activities. The universal design for learning framework provides a flexible approach that helps teachers ensure all their students feel supported and engaged.
By offering students multiple ways to access the same material, teachers can create classrooms that are more responsive to the students’ unique learning preferences and strengths.
Individuals interested in supporting neurodivergent students and helping them overcome their academic challenges can explore Wilson College Online’s B.A. in Special Education program. With self-paced courses and a curriculum grounded in best practices, the program helps aspiring educators build practical skills and prepare for meaningful careers in education.
Learn more about Wilson College Online’s B.A. in Special Education program today.
Recommended Readings
5 Dyslexia Teaching Strategies for Special Education Professionals
Understanding the Needs of Diverse Learners in the Classroom
Sources:
CAST, Universal Design for Learning
CityGov, “Teaching for All: Why Universal Design for Learning Is the Future of Education”
Education Week, “5 Common Learning Differences in Students: A Data Snapshot”
Edutopia, “Fun Formative Assessment Activities Inspired by UDL”
Everway, “7 UDL Strategies and Examples for Every Classroom”
Government Technology, “CoSN 2025: Universal Design for Learning Applies to Tech, Too”
