Implementation
Be the changeUDL Guidelines - Version 2.0: Examples and Resources
Checkpoint 2.3: Support decoding of text, mathematical notation, and symbols
I. Provide Multiple Means of Representation
Language, expressions, and symbols
Key Considerations
- How does this help learners meet the goal?
- How does this account for the variability of all learners?
- Can learners decode the information fluently?
udlcenter [at] udlcenter [dot] org (Can you think of other examples/resources that illustrate this checkpoint? Tell us!)
Search these examples and resources on Diigo!
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CLiCK, SpeakCLiCK, Speak is a text-to-speech function designed for sighted users who want to hear text read aloud. It is compatible with Windows and Macintosh. Age Group: All ages |
Why UDL? CLiCK, Speak is an excellent example of providing options for decoding text. Students who have difficulty decoding, students who are English-Language Learners, and students who simply like to listen to text as they read all benefit from this option. |
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Voki
Voki, is text to speech generator that allows the user to create a personal speaking avatar that can be embedded in a website. The site offers a high level of customization ranging from the overall look of the Voki to the sound of its voice. Age Group: All ages |
Why UDL? Voki is a creative and versatile text-to-speech option and serves as another great example of providing options for decoding. Reading text aloud can help students who are struggling to decode by modeling pronunciation of letter and word sounds and by making a connection between oral language and written text. Plus, the fact that students can customize the look and sound of their avatars adds to engagement! |
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AIM Explorer
The AIM Explorer is a free simulation that combines grade-leveled digital text with access features common to most text readers and other supported reading software. Magnification, custom text and background colors, text-to-speech (synthetic and human), text highlighting, and layout options are presented in a logical sequence to help struggling readers decide which of these supports might help them to access and understand text. Age Group: All ages |
Why UDL? Text-to-speech is an effective way to provide options for decoding text. The AIM Explorer allows users to explore their preferences for different text-to-speech options such as voice (synthetic and human), speed, and text highlighting. See also: |
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Starfall
Starfall is a free learn-to-read website. It contains various interactive activities and games related to the essential components of early reading. Primarily designed for first grade, Starfall is also useful for pre-kindergarten, kindergarten and second grade. Age Group: K-2 |
Why UDL? Designed for early readers, Starfall features activities and games that build decoding skills such as the pairing of sounds with letters and letter combinations. |
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AIM Navigator
"The AIM Navigator is a free tool that facilitates the process of decision-making around accessible instructional materials for an individual student. The four major decision points in the process include 1) determination of need, 2) selection of format(s), 3) acquisition of formats; and 4) selection of supports for use. The AIM Navigator includes guiding questions, information that informs decision-making, and useful resources for each decision point." Age Group: All ages |
Why UDL? AIM are specialized formats of curricular content that can be used by and students with print-disabilities. They include formats such as Braille, audio, large print, and electronic text. The audio format and the electronic text format coupled with text-to-speech are excellent examples of providing options that decode text. See also: 1.3: Offer alternatives for visual information |
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National Center on Accessible Instructional Materials (AIM)
This site serves as a resource to state- and district-level educators, parents, publishers, conversion houses, accessible media producers, and others interested in learning more about and implementing AIM and NIMAS. Age Group: All ages |
Why UDL? AIM are specialized formats of curricular content that can be used by and students with print-disabilities. They include formats such as Braille, audio, large print, and electronic text. The audio format and the electronic text format coupled with text-to-speech are excellent examples of providing options that decode text. See also: 1.1: Offer ways of customizing the display of information 1.3: Offer alternatives for visual information |
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Mathematics Glossary
This free online glossary defines mathematical terms and concepts through text, images, and examples relating to real world applications. Age Group: All ages |
Why UDL? The Mathematics Glossary uses multiple means of representation to help students decode mathematical notation. See also: |
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Math ML
Informational website on Mathematical Markup Language, or MathML. MathML is an XML application for describing mathematical notation and capturing both its structure and content. Age Group: All ages |
Why UDL? Access this website to learn more about Math ML and how mathematical equations are being embedded in digital format in the same way that text has been embedded to promote the flexibility and fluidity of mathematical notation on the web. |
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Last Updated: 07/22/2015
National Center On Universal Design for Learning, at CAST
40 Harvard Mills Square, Suite 3; Wakefield, MA 01880-3233
TEL.: (781) 245-2212, EMAIL: udlcenter [at] udlcenter [dot] org
40 Harvard Mills Square, Suite 3; Wakefield, MA 01880-3233
TEL.: (781) 245-2212, EMAIL: udlcenter [at] udlcenter [dot] org
© Copyright CAST, Inc. 2012