The UDL-IRN and Gould Evans Introduce the UDL Learning Spaces Idea Kit

“In UDL we often think about how instructional planning, materials, practices, and learning measures impact outcomes. This project, really allowed us to consider how the environment itself plays such a key role in shaping teacher and learner interactions. It really aligns nicely with some of the research that I and many others have conducted in UDL implementation” said James Basham, one of the kit’s authors. In thinking about space design, Basham said “working with David and the team at Gould Evans has been great because they realize it’s more than a school, or a classroom, it’s about truly designing a learning environment.”

As work across the field continues to demonstrate the importance of considering the various design elements of the learning environment, we have been reflecting on how space design actually impacts learning and associated behaviors. Working with Gould Evans, an award winning architecture firm that focuses on shaping learning environments through the lens of both educators and learners, the UDL-IRN is excited to announce the UDL Learning Spaces Idea Kit.

From supporting basic accessibility to encouraging self-determined and future-focused learners the environment matters. The kit was developed to encourage conversations, understanding, and actions among the variables that are involved in shaping human behavior and outcomes in learning. As highlighted in its name, the UDL Learning Spaces Idea Kit, supports a crosswalk among physical space design and the UDL Guidelines (CAST, 2018).

UDL Learning Spaces Idea Kit will be highlighted and distributed at the 2018 UDL-IRN Summit in Orlando, FL. It will be available soon at LearningDesigned.org. Until then, email mckenzie.nicholis@udl-irn.org to request your UDL Kit. UDL Idea Kit Reference Guide

You can learn more about the Gould Evan Education Practice Studio approach through their website and in-house design learning program: STEAM Studio, and a compilation of their research in the book Unleashing Creative Genius.

Lead authors of the UDL Learning Spaces Idea Kit.

David Reid, AIA, LEED AP
Principal
Gould Evans
david.reid@gouldevans.com

James Basham, Ph.D.
Co-Founder | Associate Professor
UDL-IRN | University of Kansas
james.basham@udl-irn.org