2017 UDL Symposium

What does it take to create a truly meaningful inclusive classroom setting? How can we apply moral courage in the classroom? Through a process of awareness and collaboration, educators can mindfully make ANY inclusive setting a place where each learner feels a sense of belonging that can transcend learning beyond the moments of instruction.

Universal Design for Learning (UDL) provides the language, concepts, research, and mindset necessary to guide teachers to co-create a shared mission as they eliminate barriers in the curriculum and create a dynamic learning process. According to Linda Darling-Hammond (1997), educators must engage in democratic discourse to create a harmonious learning ground. Singleton (2015) stated this democratic discourse can only occur when the time and space for courageous conversations occur. This workshop will explore how co-teachers, administrators, professors, and all learners can use a courageous conversations framework to reveal equitable, inclusive learning experiences.

Participants will:

• Connect with the narrative of inclusion from a students' perspective to empower your advocacy steps. 
• Engage with the four agreements and consider how the courageous conversations structure may pave the way for meaningful inclusive experiences.
• Consider how the courageous conversation compass can be a powerful navigation tool for you--as a champion of learners in inclusive settings!  

References

Darling-Hammond, L. (1997). The Right To Learn: A Blueprint for Creating Schools That Work. San Francisco, CA:  Jossey-Bass.

Singleton, G. E. (2014). Courageous conversations about race: A field guide for achieving equity in schools.
     Thousand Oaks, CA:  Corwin Press.