Image Map Skip to Main Content

Universal Design for Learning (UDL): Brain Research

With a few minor adaptations, this Universal Design for Learning LibGuide is based on the one created by Sara Scribner, Library Faculty at Olympic College. Licensed under Creative Commons CC-BY-NC. Original libguide found at http://libguides.olympic.edu/

Brain Research Issues

  • "How does the brain work during learning?
  • Under what conditions do we learn best?
  • Why do some people learn differently from others?
  • Is everyone's brain built the same way?"

Source: CAST

The Three Systems for Learning

Recent brain research has identified three major ways that individuals learn.  Teaching must therefore fit those different learning snetworks.

  1. Recognition networks - identify & interpret patterns of sound, light, taste, smell, and touch. For more, click here.
  2. Strategic networks – plan, execute, & monitor internally generated mental & motor actions & skills. For more, click here.
  3. Affective networks – interact with the world influenced by state of emotions, mood, interest, personality, motivations, memory, & biological state. For more, click here.