As education has evolved, it has become clear that in addition to academics, it is critical for students to learn 21st-century skills, like collaboration, communication, critical thinking, and creativity to succeed in school and life. Our instruction must go beyond “teaching to the test” to empower students to excel. This requires us to integrate social-emotional instruction into our lessons every day. Universal Design for Learning and Social-Emotional Learning create a powerful partnership in educating our youth. Yet, educators often feel like implementing too many initiatives at once can be overwhelming. There is a beautiful overlap between these two frameworks and this course explores how they complement each other to engage learners and focus on the whole child. When learners are self-aware and able to identify and regulate their emotions and can work well independently or with peers, they can tap into parts of their brain that may otherwise be shut off to learning. Throughout this course, we will explore how to create an environment that fosters social, emotional, behavioral, and academic growth using both UDL and SEL in your learning environment.

How the Course Works

• Review the Syllabus
• Watch the video introducing each module
• Dive deeper into the content. Review readings and resources, the key is to self-differentiate. Choose what works best for you and helps you better understand the content and engage with the lesson
• Post to the discussion board, interact with your classmates if you choose to, and make connections
• Taking the course for grad credit? Complete a final project for feedback
• Receive your completion certificate for 45 continuing education hours or 3 graduate-level continuing education credits (as applicable)

Course Materials

• All materials are freely linked and can be accessed from each module.