Universal Design for Learning Harvard Summer Institute Blog

Yesterday I introduced myself by telling you about my background today I will introduce myself the UDL way. I know a great deal about genealogy research especially in the area of French Canadian ancestry. Although since returning to school for my PhD I have become rusty in my knowledge of this area because I have not been able to work on my family tree at all.

This is a link to my ancestor Louis Jacques’ house in Charlesbourg, Quebec. When my niece was married in Vermont my mother and I traveled to Quebec to see the house and while we were there we even got to go inside and look around the lower level.

http://www.100megsfree2.com/jjscherr/jacques/jacqueshouses.htm

Making reservations at a restaurant is a strategy that I use effectively because I do not enjoy cooking. So, when we are in the mood for spicy Italian I make reservations at one restaurant, a more authentic lasagna dish we go to another. Actually, I am also very strategic in solving problems involving both family tree “mysteries” and logic problems or crossword puzzles.

Some activities that I really enjoy are genealogy, doing logic problems, and crossword puzzles because I like solving problems. I also love to travel because I love learning about different cultures.

My name is Barbara (Barb) Meier and I taught special education at the elementary and middle school level for 15 years. Two years ago I left the classroom to attend Michigan State University in order to pursue my doctorate in Special Education. My areas of interest are in Universal Design for Learning and technology.

Along with working on my PhD I am also working as a consultant on the state SIG Mathematics AYP Professional Development Grant in Michigan. We provide professional development sessions to special and general education teachers to help them improve their mathematics programs and reach adequate yearly progress.

Last year I attended the UDL Institute as a participant and this year I am fortunate enough to be here as a facilitator. I am very excited to be here again this year!