Universally designed assessments DO NOT change the standard of performance - they are not watered down or made easier for some groups.
Universally designed assessments are not meant to replace accommodations. Even by incorporating the elements of universal design in assessment design, accommodations may still be needed for some students in the areas of presentation, response, setting, timing, and scheduling.
There is a reason we are calling the ideas we will be working with “considerations.” They are steps that should be considered when developing an assessment. They should be talked about openly and decisions should be made, having weighed the pros and cons of different design elements.
In addition to English language learners, ALL students benefit from having more accessible tests.
Next: Universal Design Step 1