Accommodations Toolbox: Introduction
Note: Content is being currently being built and will be complete by the end of March 2026.
Meeting Every Learner Where They Are
Welcome! In this journey teaching meets transformation. You’ll explore how to design instruction that meets the unique needs of every student. We’ll look at how thoughtful accommodations and inclusive practices can open doors to learning and participation for all.
A key focus of this Quest is the powerful role of assistive technology; from simple supports like text-to-speech tools and graphic organizers to advanced adaptive devices that help students communicate, create, and connect. Grounded in the principles of Universal Design for Learning (UDL), you’ll discover how planning with flexibility and accessibility in mind benefits every learner not just those with identified needs.
Get ready to discover practical ways to personalize instruction, remove barriers, and help every learner shine!
Learning Objectives
I can:
- Identify individual learner strengths, needs, and barriers and intentionally align instruction, supports, and transitions with grade-level academic standards.
- Select and use built-in accessibility features and assistive technologies to proactively reduce barriers and increase access to content for all learners.
- Design and implement flexible instructional strategies and accommodations that support learner variability and promote independence.
- Differentiate instruction and assessment to honor diverse abilities, backgrounds, languages, and learning preferences.
- Apply inclusive design practices (UDL principles) to create learning experiences that are accessible, engaging, and meaningful for every student.
- Reflect on and adjust instructional practices to ensure equitable access, participation, and progress for all learners.
Inclusive by Design
The video below explores the purpose behind inclusive technology and how it supports all learners. It connects what inclusive technologies are with why they matter, highlighting how thoughtful design and implementation can improve learning experiences for students with disabilities and better support their families, whether instruction is virtual, in person, or blended.
Discussion questions to think about as you play the video below:
- What does inclusive technology look like in your current classroom or program?
- Which students might benefit most from intentional technology-based accommodations?
- How can inclusive technology reduce barriers without changing learning goals?
- How can teams ensure accommodations are proactive rather than reactive?
- How can providing consistent access to accommodations build confidence for students outside of school?
You may want to play this video and have a discussion about the question above as a team.
The What & Why of Inclusive Technology
Direct link (6:40 min.)
Note: This is the first video in a series of videos focused on Building a Foundation for Inclusive Technology Systems at the Center on Inclusive Technology & Education Systems (CITES).