CAST - Learning Tools

The goal of any accommodation is to make curriculum accessible to ALL students. Flexibility of materials and modalities is a core component necessary to reach this goal.

CAST (Founded in 1984 as the Center for Applied Specialized Technology) provides a wealth of information related to Universal Design for Learning (UDL).

According to their website:

"CAST's Mission: To expand learning opportunities for all individuals, especially those with disabilities, through Universal Design for Learning."

Universal Design for Learning is an educational approach with three primary principles :

1. Multiple means of representation, to give diverse learners options for acquiring information and knowledge,
2. Multiple means of action and expression, to provide learners options for demonstrating what they know,
3. Multiple means of engagement, to tap into learners' interests, offer appropriate challenges, and increase motivation

To achieve that Mission, CAST has a wide array of FREE Learning Tools available on their website to support educators, students and families. Check it out here

The latest tool available is CAST Science Writer, which is a free "web based writing tool that supports all students in the science report writing process."

Visit the Learning Tools page for all the CAST tools - here are a couple highlights (and my personal favorites!):

UDL Book Builder - promotes literacy for all students by enabling anyone to create a digital book to support reading.

UDL on line modules - these 2 modules introduce the principles and applications of UDL. Great resource to share with anyone not familiar with UDL.

Visit their website and explore - there is something there for everyone!

Have a good experience with one of the CAST tools?

Share it with us by leaving a comment below.