March 12, 2025, 9:00 a.m. ET
Ms. Jamie Pan, the ESL Program Director at Olivet Academy, attended an insightful professional development session at the Dutchess BOCES Conference Center, hosted by the Hudson Valley Regional Bilingual Education Resource Network (RBERN). The session, titled Designing Accessible Instruction for ELLs: A UDL Approach to Inclusive Classroom Instruction, was led by educator Alison Provencher and focused on equipping teachers with effective strategies to support English Language Learners (ELLs) through Universal Design for Learning (UDL).
The conference was a valuable opportunity to collaborate with other educators and gain fresh insights into best practices for supporting multilingual learners. Universal Design for Learning (UDL) originated from the special education field, where it was developed to create more accessible learning experiences for students with disabilities. Over time, its principles have expanded to benefit all learners, emphasizing flexible teaching methods that accommodate different needs, strengths, and backgrounds. By applying UDL strategies, educators can design instruction that removes barriers to learning while fostering independence and engagement for every student.
Alongside UDL-based instruction, educators across New York State have been exploring AI-powered tools such as Magic School, Brisk, and Diffit to enhance teaching for all students, including diverse learners. These platforms help streamline lesson planning, differentiate instruction, and provide personalized learning experiences for students, including ELLs. AI tools allow teachers to generate leveled texts, create customized assignments, and offer instant feedback, making classroom instruction more accessible and engaging for multilingual learners. As artificial intelligence continues to evolve, its integration into education is opening new possibilities for inclusive and effective teaching practices.
