The Trials Project: How to Measure Progress of UDL Implementation

In this bonus episode from CAST's The Learning Experience, host Bryan Dean sits down with Michelle Ring-Hanson and JoAnn Miller to explore their long‑standing UDL work in Wisconsin and the practical systems they’ve built to support inclusive teaching. The conversation highlights their UDL Mentor Toolkit, how it supports educators in translating UDL into daily practice, and what it means to be recognized with a UDL‑Con 2025 Innovative Practice Award. Together, they share lessons from the field, reflections on mentorship, and what’s next for scaling UDL‑aligned innovation.Subscribe to The Learning Experience: https://learningexperience.transistor.fm/subscribeLearn more about CAST: https://www.cast.org  Resources:UDL Implementation Trials Mentor Toolkit (Open source, must sign up) UDL Awards

This episode is a special episode from UDL-Con, powered by CAST, originally appearing on the Transformative Principal podcast. CAST just released the Guidelines for (Universal Design for Learning) UDL 3.0, which you can find here. If you don't know what UDL is, it's a way to make learning accessible for everyone! You can check out more about the webinars here.Enjoy this special episode.Jethro Jones interviews Missy Emler and Mia Chmiel. Missy shares her experiences and insights as a statewide systems coach for UDL in Wisconsin, diving deep into the implementation science framework and the trials process. Mia Chmiel also joins the conversation to discuss practical examples of UDL trials and their impact on student engagement and learning outcomes.00:00 Introduction to the Special Episode00:50 Meet Missy Emler01:18 Reasons for Attending UDL Con01:52 Implementation Science and UDL in Wisconsin04:15 Plan, Study, Do, Act Cycles05:57 Practical Outcomes of UDL Trials14:50 Mia Chmiel's Role and Insights26:46 Joining the Wisconsin UDL Community

In this episode of the UDL Forward podcast, hosts Melissa Emler and Mia Chmiel discuss the intersection of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and Artificial Intelligence (AI). They highlight the opportunities that tools like CHAT GPT provide for teachers and students, emphasizing the power and potential of AI in education. The hosts share their personal experiences with AI and emphasize the importance of understanding the implications and benefits of AI in the classroom. Tune in to learn more about how AI can help move UDL forward.

In this episode of the UDL Forward podcast, hosts Melissa Emler and Mia Chmiel discuss the importance of empathetic design and the principles of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) in creating a more inclusive and effective learning environment for all students. They dive into the myths surrounding the implementation of UDL and how it can cater to the diverse learning needs of all students. The power of multiple means of representation and expression is also examined, empowering learners to better understand, interpret, and communicate their ideas.

Melissa Emler and Mia Chmiel dive into designing learning environments with the core philosophy that barriers to learning exist in the environment, not in the kids. They discuss the origins of universal design in architecture and practical strategies for educators to create inclusive and adaptable learning spaces.

In this episode of UDL Forward, hosts Missy Emler and Mia Schmiel discuss the importance of assessment in creating an inclusive and accessible learning environment. The hosts share practical tips, innovative strategies, and best practices for implementing universal design for learning principles in assessment. Through real-life examples and stories from teachers and students, they inspire listeners to make meaningful changes in their schools or districts to ensure that all students have the opportunity to succeed. Tune in to learn more about the transformative power of UDL in assessment and education.

In this episode of UDL Forward, hosts Missy Emler and Mia Chmiel introduce listeners to their podcast, which focuses on Universal Design for Learning (UDL). They explain the importance of creating inclusive and accessible learning environments for all students, along with practical tips and best practices for implementing UDL in schools and districts. Through real-life examples and inspiring stories, they hope to empower educators and administrators to make meaningful change and become catalysts for a brighter future.[00:02:23] Expert learners.  [00:03:46] Expert learners and UDL guidelines. [00:07:43] Reflection and Expert Learning. [00:12:49] Student variability throughout the day. [00:16:10] Learning vs. achievement. [00:20:09] Expert learners and UDL. [00:24:01] Education for all students.