Universal Design for Learning   Think of this… ·        Talking books are now Audio Books, sold at Bookstores and discount stores ·        Velcro, once sold only through Rehabilitation catalogs, is now sold everywhere ·        Built up handles once sold only in Rehab catalogs, are now sold in any housewares department as Comfort Grip      Universal Design for Learning gives every student access to what is being taught, by eliminating the physical, sensory, affective, or cognitive barriers and expanding learning opportunities by:   Multiple means of representation, to give learners various ways of acquiring information and knowledge, Multiple means of expression, to provide learners alternatives for demonstrating what they know, Multiple means of engagement, to tap into learners' interests, offer appropriate challenges, and increase motivation.  (CAST website) The Center for Applied Special Technology (CAST) is the leading organization in the research and development of “…supporting all learners according to their individual strengths and needs.”   Their website has information and toolkits on Teaching Every Student (TES).  Their research includes “…literacy, online learning, assessment, textbook design, accessibility, classroom practice, and education policy.” You might have noticed these pictures on some web sites.  They guarantee access to the material for everyone.