Planning and application of activies in School Physical Education classes based on Universal Design for Learning

Abstract

Universal Design for Learning is a theoretical approach that aims to offer support to teachers to promote teaching that is accessible to all through the principles of engagement, representation, action and expression. This study aimed to plan, apply, and describe activities in school PE classes based on DUA by teachers for all students in elementary school, cycle I, regardless of their physical, intellectual, sensory, socioeconomic and academic condition. Collaborative research was carried out with five Physical Education teachers working in elementary school, who participated in a theoretical meeting followed by four focus groups in which each teacher developed a Physical Education activity based on the principles of UDL. The activities were applied and later shared with the other teachers. The focus groups were recorded, and the meetings were analyzed using thematic analysis of information. Five activities were carried out, they were: preparation for the dodgeball championship; orange harvest; human foosball; steals flag; athletics (discus throwing).  The main strategies based on DUA included: presenting content in different ways; present the task in a challenge format; use designs and technological tools as a complementary strategy, hold conversation circles; and disseminate what has been learned through exhibitions at the school of the activity worked on.  The Physical Education activities based in the DUA are in line with the Common National Curricular Base and their incorporation into the teacher's daily routine can favor the provision of a school physical education  accessible to all students.