
As an educational content creator who loves STEM, my mission is to design resources that are accessible, engaging, and empowering for all learners. Additionally, Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles are at the heart of my work, ensuring that my content can be adapted to meet students' variable needs.
The recently released Transformational Learning Principles (TLP) developed by ASCD+ISTE provide an excellent complementary framework that aligns with my commitment to fostering inclusive, equitable, and dynamic learning environments. As an ISTE-certified educator trainer and Community Leader, here’s how I integrate these principles into my content development process to enhance STEM classrooms.
Transformation principle #1: Nurture
Cultivating belonging
Fostering a sense of belonging is essential for effective learning. UDL principles emphasize designing environments where all students feel included and valued. When creating content, I prioritize opportunities for students to collaborate, brainstorm, and provide feedback, building a sense of community and connection.
I design materials to help educators build relationships and establish a classroom culture where every student feels safe and included. By incorporating empathy, collaboration, and inclusivity, these resources support educators in using UDL strategies to create welcoming environments.
For example, the STEM notebooks I developed in Book Creator include collaborative problem-solving activities in science, data science, design thinking, and engineering. They also offer tips for educators on running a design sprint, introducing a new instructional approach they may not have experienced as students.
Connecting learning to the learner
I design content that connects to students' backgrounds, experiences, and interests while offering open-ended, problem-based activities to engage them in multiple ways.
In the STEM notebooks, students begin by sharing about themselves and taking on the role of investigators. This approach helps them take ownership of their learning journey.

Student investigator profile page from the 5E notebook.
Ensuring equity
Equity is a core principle of Universal Design for Learning (UDL), focusing on removing barriers to learning and providing equal opportunities for all students. The updated UDL guidelines highlight the importance of honoring the whole child, including their cultural identity and experiences.
Designing culturally responsive and inclusive resources, inspired by Dr. Rudine Sims Bishop's "mirrors and windows" metaphor, allows students to see their experiences reflected (mirrors) and understand others' perspectives (windows).
A simple way to create a "mirror" in content is by ensuring students can see themselves represented in the imagery. For example, featuring people of color hiking on the cover of a nature journal signals to students that the content is inclusive and meant for them.
Transformation principle #2: Guide
Sparking curiosity
Curiosity is the engine of learning. To spark curiosity, we must use multiple means of engagement to ignite students' interest—one of the core principles of the UDL framework.
In my content, I connect to students' experiences and interests. In the Data Science notebook, they explore real-world problems and data sets that matter to them, like sports statistics or social media analytics, making learning more relevant and engaging.
Developing expertise
Developing expertise requires practice and deep understanding. When creating educational content, I focus on supporting students in mastering standards while ensuring teachers can adapt the materials to their specific STEM content.
Three strategies to build expertise:
- Model Critical Thinking: Show students how to approach problems and reason through complex ideas by thinking aloud during lessons.
- Use Inquiry-Based Learning: Frame lessons around questions to spark curiosity and encourage students to explore and take ownership of their learning.
- Provide Varied Practice: Include different types of problems and skills in assignments to help students apply concepts in various contexts
Elevating reflection
Reflection helps students think critically about their learning. I include tools and prompts to encourage both individual and group reflection, helping students assess their progress, apply feedback, and personalize their learning experience.
Creative tools like Book Creator allow students to reflect in video, audio, or text, ensuring they can focus on reflection without being limited by communication barriers.
Transformation principle #3: Empower
Prioritizing authentic experiences
Authentic learning is key, especially in STEM education. Problem-based learning encourages students to experiment, tinker, and explore, sparking curiosity and creativity around real-world problems.
In my adaptations of STEM notebooks, I’ve designed specific challenges, like creating a sculpture, to connect learning to real-world scenarios. This approach helps students develop practical skills and build the confidence to tackle future challenges.
Igniting agency
Empowering students to own their learning is a key UDL principle. My content emphasizes learner-led approaches and flexible formats to suit individual strengths and preferences.
In my Engineering and Design Thinking notebooks, students make choices and share their learning throughout the process. At the end, they showcase their prototypes to communicate what they’ve learned.
Now it's your turn to reflect
As you develop your next lesson or resource, challenge yourself to incorporate the Transformational Learning Principles into your planning. By doing so, you will create more meaningful and impactful learning experiences and foster a classroom environment where students feel empowered, engaged, and inspired to reach their full potential.
Let’s commit to designing content that nurtures curiosity, guides growth, and empowers students for the future.

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With 20 years of experience in education, Katie is passionate about creating inclusive and accessible classrooms for all students. She loves exploring new places, trying different foods, and connecting with fellow educators.