Open Access Collection
Overview
Open Access is committed to fostering accessible, inclusive, and high-functioning educational systems that support meaningful participation and success for all learners. Grounded in the Universal Design for Learning (UDL) framework and evidence-based practices, these collections of resources are designed to help educators, administrators, and school teams build capacity for systemic implementation of inclusive practices across learning environments. Together, the resources support schools in reducing barriers to learning while promoting engagement, communication, learner agency, and equitable access to rigorous instruction.
The collections include supports related to Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), Assistive Technology (AT), and Universal Design for Learning (UDL), offering practical tools, professional learning resources, planning guides, implementation supports, and real-world examples that help educators create flexible, responsive learning environments. Across all collections, the emphasis is on recognizing learner variability, strengthening inclusive instructional design, and empowering all students to actively participate, communicate, and thrive in their educational experiences.
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Related Collections
Assistive Technology (AT)
Assistive technology (AT) is an umbrella term that encompasses a range of tools, strategies, and services that enables a student with a disability to complete a task they would otherwise have difficulty with or be unable to do. Federal law requires IEP teams to consider assistive technology for every student with an Individualized Education Program (IEP) to ensure equitable access to instruction, materials, and school activities. Accessible technology refers to technology that's been designed with the needs of many different users in mind. Often Accessible technology ...
Augmentative Alternative Communication (AAC)
Augmentative Alternative Communication (AAC) is an area of clinical practice that addresses the needs of individuals with significant and complex communication disorders characterized by impairments in speech-language production and comprehension, including spoken and written modes of communication. Augmentative Alternative Communication (AAC) describes multiple ways to communicate that can supplement or compensate (either temporarily or permanently) for impairments in speech-language production and/or comprehension, including spoken and written modes of communication. AAC is augmentative when used to supplement existing speech, and alternative when used in place of speech ...
Universal Design of Learning (UDL)
Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is a research-based framework for designing flexible, inclusive learning environments that anticipate learner variability and reduce barriers to participation, engagement, and achievement. Rather than expecting students to adapt to a single method of instruction, UDL encourages educators to provide multiple ways for learners to engage with content, access information, and demonstrate understanding. By emphasizing learner agency, accessibility, and intentional instructional design, UDL supports equitable opportunities for all students, including those with disabilities and diverse learning needs. This collection of resources provides ...