Weekly Reflection #3

The focus of this week was Designing for Learning, specifically through the frameworks of Understanding by Design (UbD), Universal Design for Learning (UDL), and the ADDIE model (Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, and Evaluation). All of these share the goal of creating inclusive, intentional learning spaces to help support all learners. Although incorporating these approaches as a new teacher can feel overwhelming at first, the more I learn about them, the more I see how they are preparing me and giving me the tools I need to support students, leaving me feeling much more prepared. It has us thinking proactively rather than reactively.

This CAST UDL graphic highlights how intentional planning supports learner agency through engagement, representation, and expression. his framework helps me see how small, purposeful choices such as offering multiple ways for students to access content or demonstrate understanding and can make learning more inclusive. Rather than trying to implement everything at once, this graphic is reassuring that UDL is a flexible guide that I can grow into overtime as I build confidence and experience in the classroom.

The ADDIE model highlights the importance of intentional planning and reflection throughout the instructional process. What I find especially valuable is how it emphasizes understanding learners and goals before instruction begins, while also recognizing that learning design does not end with implementation. The ongoing cycle of feedback, evaluation, and revision supports thoughtful teaching and encourages continual improvement, making ADDIE a practical and flexible framework for designing meaningful learning experiences.

This week served as a valuable reinforcement around thoughtful and inclusive learning design. Revisiting UbD, UDL, and the ADDIE model deepen my understanding of how intentional planning supports student learning and agency. Seeing these frameworks alongside one another highlighted how they complement each other and can be applied flexibly in practice. Rather than feeling like something entirely new, this week strengthened my appreciation for designing learning proactively and thoughtfully, and reinforces the importance of reflection and ongoing improvement in teaching.