There are instances in which it might be difficult to implement UDL principles in classrooms. Some teachers have classroom challenges that might include:
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Only a few students in a “one room schoolhouse” type setting with a wide range of academic levels and abilities.
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Shared space with other teachers or activities.
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Wearing multiple hats in one school, such as program manager, teacher, and mentor.
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Difficulty making physical changes to rooms due to the need for administration to be invested in UDL and willingness to support teacher ideas.
The emphasis in UDL is small changes can have big results. When faced with limitations in classroom settings, it is still possible to implement UDL concepts. The following are strategies to consider:
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Get to know students by asking them to either fill out informational forms or ask them questions
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Help students get to know peers by giving them questions to ask each other, then presenting what they learn to the class
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Give students jobs to increase self-worth and value, such as greeting other students at the door, passing out papers, helping set up the class or clean up the class, etc.
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Create a welcoming entrance with clearly marked areas for homework assignments, the sign-in sheet, and other pertinent information for the day
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Write the schedule on the board
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Set classroom rules and post them. Get student input so they are invested in the process
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Use a variety of instructional methods
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Allow students to demonstrate knowledge in a variety of formats
