The Shift to Student-Led: Reimagining Classroom Workflows with UDL and Blended Learning

by Katie Novak, Catlin R. Tucker

Catlin Tucker and Katie Novak have worked with too many educators who are frustrated and disillusioned with the teaching profession. They know that teachers are drowning in work and unrealistic demands. Many are mentally and emotionally exhausted by the uncertainty and constant change created by the pandemic. In this follow-up to UDL and Blended Learning, the authors have set out to help teachers reimagine their approach to their work so that it is sustainable and rewarding.

Each chapter in The Shift to Student-Led takes apart one traditional teacher-led workflow, examining the problems it presents teachers and students, what the research says versus what the reality in the classroom is, and how UDL and blended learning can free teachers from the “sage on the stage” role and place students at the center of their learning. These reimagined student-led workflows help students develop self-awareness, internal motivation, and self-regulation skills, which are critical to becoming expert learners.

Intended for K-12 educators, instructional coaches, and school leaders, this book is full of principles, strategies, and resources that can be put into practice right away by teachers at any level who want to create academically robust, inclusive learning communities.

Genres: Education

Paperback

Published November 15, 2022

About the author

Katie Novak, Ed.D., is an internationally renowned education consultant, author, graduate instructor at the University of Pennsylvania, and a former Assistant Superintendent of Schools in Massachusetts. With 20 years of experience in teaching and administration, an earned doctorate in curriculum and teaching, and ten published books, Katie designs and presents workshops both nationally and internationally focusing on the implementation of inclusive practices, Universal Design for Learning (UDL), multi-tiered systems of support, and universally designed leadership. Novak’s work has impacted educators worldwide as her contributions and collaborations have built upon the foundation for an educational framework that is critical for student success.

Dr. Novak is the author of the best-selling books, UDL Now! A Teacher’s Guide to Applying Universal Design for Learning in Today’s Classrooms, Innovate Inside the Box, with George Couros, Equity by Design, with Mirko Chardin, and UDL and Blended Learning with Catlin Tucker.

Reviews

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tucker & Novak know how to write valuable books for educators. This is my third book by them, and they have a special knack for the use of analogous anecdotes. I always have an 'aha' moment about their concepts because of these analogies (e.g., using our complex systems of Starbucks ordering as a means of understanding why blended learning is so powerful and important in the classroom). The associated website has a wealth of templates that are also showcased throughout the book as a launching point for the workflow shifts they outline. I highly recommend this book in conjunction with their latest release, Elevating Educational Design with AI, as that outlines valuable ways to help AI be a thought partner and time-saver in your shift to UDL/blended learning, since a lack of time is the most common excuse we make for avoiding this essential classroom paradigm shift.

[Dr. Jeremy Cross · Rating 5 out of 5]

Catlin and Katie combine their expertise to create a must read for educators K-12. Simply put, you will learn how to harness the power of UDL and blended learning to create classrooms where outcomes and engagement improve for students. And, as a much needed benefit in a field where our plates are overfilled with mandates and demands, educators will absolutely save time and improve their work/life balance by making the shift to student-led learning.

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I learned about blended learning and UDL separately. This book puts the two together in a way that makes sense with concrete, usable activities that can be easily adapted.
It is an easy read- not too much “in the clouds” theory. The authors explain real problems and offer possible solutions.
I also found the templates on Katie Novak’s website which is SUPER helpful. Now I can adjust them instead of spending more time completely remaking them.

[Phillip Nash · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very practical book to help teachers shift their practice utilising UDL and Blended Learning approaches. Lots of excellent strategies to change current practice and explain how and why it will help students engage in their own learning.

[Justin · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Stars.

[Janel Nichole · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent resource for educators looking to implement more Student Led instruction in their classrooms.