The Learning Experience S.04, Ep. 4: Universal Design for Learning and Mental Health
Apr 1, 2025
Dr. Hillary Goldthwait-Fowles, an expert in Universal Design for Learning, explores how inclusive practices can enhance student mental health. She emphasizes removing barriers to learning while destigmatizing support systems. Hillary shares her personal experiences with mental health challenges and provides actionable strategies for educators, like mapping current practices to UDL guidelines. The discussion highlights the need for collaboration and community in classrooms, promoting student ownership and reducing tech overwhelm.
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Software Install Sparked UDL Journey
- Hillary recounts installing Dragon Dictation for a student and seeing immediate expressive changes.
- A teacher asked if all students could use it, sparking her UDL journey away from gatekept supports.
Mindset Shift Is The Core Of UDL
- UDL requires an internal mindset shift in judgments, attitudes, and beliefs about learners.
- It's as much about transforming educator perspectives as about tools and tech.
Start By Mapping What You Already Do
- Map which UDL guidelines you already use to build confidence and momentum.
- Pick one guideline that speaks to you and deepen it rather than overhauling everything at once.
