Case Study 2: Correctional Facility Adult Education Class

Setting:
An adult basic education (ABE) teacher works in a medium-security correctional facility, providing GED preparation classes. The class includes learners with trauma histories, gaps in education, and varied learning preferences.

Challenge:
Students often had negative prior school experiences and widely different levels of reading and math proficiency. Many had difficulty sustaining focus in traditional instruction formats.

UDL Solutions:

• Representation:
  The teacher introduced concepts using audio books, manipulatives for math, and video segments (when allowed). Materials were scaffolded, and key concepts were highlighted using color and visuals.

• Action & Expression:
  Learners demonstrated understanding by solving problems on whiteboards, explaining steps verbally, or using drawings and timelines. Journals were offered as an alternative to written essays.

• Engagement:
  The instructor incorporated real-life applications—like budgeting for release or writing letters for family—into assignments. Self-paced modules gave learners control over progress, and emotional safety was prioritized through positive reinforcement.

Result:
Participation increased, especially from learners previously disengaged from school. Test scores improved, and students reported higher confidence and a sense of autonomy.