Steps to collaboration in UDL: Teachers and education assistants
Subject
Abstract
Professional collaboration is essential in the workplace to facilitate the sharing and growing of
ideas. This project explores the importance of professional collaboration between teacher and
education assistant when creating a universally designed learning environment. By examining
the question ‘How can collaboration and Universal Design for Learning (UDL) provide clarity
and support EAs in their work within classrooms and with individual students?”, this project
guides teachers and EAs in building knowledge and confidence of the principles and application
of UDL, while also effectively co-constructing a collaborative culture to enrich student’s
engagement in inclusive settings. Specifically, this project describes the UDL framework and its
role in supporting students K-12, presents the imperative for professional collaboration in
schools, discusses the barriers to effective collaboration, and provides suggestions for successful
collaboration. While navigating this guidebook, teachers and EAs cultivate an understanding of
the importance and effectiveness of collaboration in inclusive classrooms and learn effective
strategies to enhance student success. This guidebook allows teachers and EAs to work through
content in meaningful ways, create a common language around collaboration, develop shared
expectations for support, learn effective communication strategies, and provide choice for all
students.