Universal Design For Learning: Using Padlet
Welcome to LCC’s Digital Learning team series on using digital learning platforms to promote and embed Universal Design for Learning principles. In this post the focus is on using Padlet.
If you don’t have a UAL Padlet account, then please check out our guide to signing up and an introduction to Padlet.
Padlet is widely used as a pinboard to collate information and share research. However, it has developed greatly over the last few years and can now be used with UDL principles. Here are different ways of using Padlet together with the principles to help students individualise their learning and to help remove any barriers to learning.
REPRESENTATION
Using video or audio posts to provide multimedia expression of learning content will help with students who are more visual and auditory learners to perceive and process information. It can also help promote language skills and a sense of connection and community.
- Recordings can be up to 30 minutes in duration for video and 60 minutes for audio. This can be used for setting tasks, recapping of information or setting questions.
- The recordings have generated captions for both video and audio. Currently there is no translation functions.
- Video content comes with a fun range of filters.
- Screen recording is another option for students to record a walk-through of a design, crit or software.
- These functions work on devices such as phones and tablets through the Padlet app, allowing for flexible use within the classroom.
How to make audio and video recordings on Padlet – (Video -4 mins, 40 secs)
EXPRESSION
Padlet can be used by students to organize thoughts, ideas, research and help with planning. The platform allows for meaningful connections and a level of individuality. Students have different ways to express themselves. Think of how your students can express themselves in different ways when using Padlet and encourage this in tasks, as well as creating a safe environment.
- Adding comments in written, video or audio forms
- Using the drawing tool.
- Adding GIFs or images.
- The AI speech tool will change written words into audio. Use this function in Chrome.
Different Attachments on Padlet you can use to enhance Universal Design for Learning principles – (Video 3min, 11 Secs)
ENGAGEMENT
There is more to engagement on Padlet than just giving a thumbs up. If you open “settings” and then choose “engagement”, you will be able to see the types of reactions you can apply to posts. The reactions include “like”, which engages an emotional response. Voting, both up and down, to help prioritise content. One to five star rating and a score which can be set to any number.
These reactions can be used along side comments. Comments can be expressed in written form, audio or video as well as drawings or screen recording or GIFs. Giving students the choice of reaction will create a sense of community and foster collective learning. Teachers also have the option of enabling the content moderation function to approve any comments. This can be done by going to “settings” and selecting “content”.
There is also an option in the post type menu to select “poll”. This can be used at the beginning or end of a Padlet board.
Come out of your comfort zone when using Padlet and explore engagement functions and tools to enhance Universal Learning Design principles. Can you think of elements in your teaching practice you can enhance? Share your reflections with the Digital Learning Team and become of one of our Digital Learning Pioneers.
Further Reading
What is the Purpose of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) with Examples
Learning Styles is dying: Is Universal Design for Learning (UDL) the solution? : #ALTC Blog
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