Addressing Biases in the Use of Language and Symbols in Universal Design for Learning

Addressing biases in the use of language and symbols is a universal design for learning (UDL) guideline that supports multiple means of representation. The UDL guidelines were developed by an organization called CAST. This article will explore ways for teachers and other educators to avoid bias among languages in their classrooms.

Addressing biases in the use of language and symbols in Universal Design for Learning

Addressing biases in the use of language and symbols means recognizing the equal value of all languages and dialects. While all learners should respect all languages and dialects, most lessons take place in one (1) language. However, this structure should not give learners the idea that the language of lessons deserves more respect than other languages. Learners who use more than one (1) language should feel that all their languages and cultures are equally important. Moreover, learners who speak only the language of the classroom should know that other languages are as meaningful as theirs. In short, everyone in class needs to learn the language of lessons. However, learners must not lose the other languages they know, or their respect for other languages and cultures.

Teachers can use many strategies to address biases in the use of language and symbols. For example, teachers can encourage classmates to listen to and learn each others’ languages. Similarly, teachers can encourage learners to speak and write in any language they know, to retain their fluency and recognize its value. Moreover, teachers can show videos with Sign language interpretation, whenever possible, to increase exposure to that language. Likewise, teachers can show videos with captions, sometimes in the language of lessons and sometimes in other languages. In addition, teachers can label common items in the classroom with words in many languages.

Furthermore, teachers should avoid words or phrases that oppress, dehumanize, or discriminate against others. For example, ableist language portrays people with disabilities as less valuable than people without disabilities.