Learners differ in the ways they navigate a learning environment, approach the learning process, and express what they know. Therefore, it is essential to design for and honor these varying forms of action and expression. For example, all individuals, including those with disabilities, approach learning tasks very differently. Depending on the context, some may prefer to express themselves in written text but not speech, and vice versa. It should also be recognized that action and expression require a great deal of strategy, practice, and organization, and this is another area in which learners will differ. In reality, there is not one means of action and expression that will be optimal for every learner; options for action and expression are essential.
UDL Guidelines
The goal of UDL is learner agency that is purposeful & reflective, resourceful & authentic, strategic & action-oriented.
Design Multiple Means ofEngagement
Design Options forSustaining Effort & Persistence (guideline 8)
Design Options forEmotional Capacity (guideline 9)
Design Multiple Means ofRepresentation
Design Options forLanguage & Symbols (guideline 2)
Design Options forBuilding Knowledge (guideline 3)
Design Multiple Means ofAction & Expression
Design Options forExpression & Communication (guideline 5)
Design Options forStrategy Development (guideline 6)
PDF versions of the graphic organizer are available on the downloads page.
Action & Expression | Guidelines & Considerations
Guideline 4Interaction
Interact with accessible materials and tools.
Consideration 4.1Vary and honor the methods for response, navigation, and movement
Interact with tools and environments that make learning physically accessible.
Consideration 4.2Optimize access to accessible materials and assistive and accessible technologies and tools
Open doors to learning with accessible tools and devices.
Guideline 5Expression & Communication
Compose and share ideas using tools that help attain learning goals.
Consideration 5.1Use multiple media for communication
Express learning in flexible ways.
Consideration 5.2Use multiple tools for construction, composition, and creativity
Share thoughts and ideas using tools that complement the learning goal.
Consideration 5.3Build fluencies with graduated support for practice and performance
Apply and gradually release scaffolds to support learner agency.
Consideration 5.4Address biases related to modes of expression and communication
Honor a wide variety of forms of communication.
Guideline 6Strategy Development
Strategize and act on plans to make the most out of learning.
Consideration 6.1Set meaningful goals
Practice setting challenging and authentic goals.
Consideration 6.2Anticipate and plan for challenges
Formulate reasonable plans for reaching goals.
Consideration 6.3Organize information and resources
Support organization and memory using flexible tools and processes.
Consideration 6.4Enhance capacity for monitoring progress
Analyze growth over time and how to build from it.
Consideration 6.5Challenge exclusionary practices
Work toward building more inclusive spaces and systems.