Implementing Effective Co-Teaching Practices Within a UDL Framework

Price:

$180

Instructor(s):

Jennifer Patenaude, M.A.

Professional Learning Hours: 6

Graduate Credits:

Intended Audience:

General education teachers, special education teachers, and speech-language pathologists (SLPs) approved to co-teach in Vermont, special education and general education leaders, and instructional coaches who support co-teaching models.

Register

This three-part co-teaching webinar series  explores key components of effective co-teaching partnerships, focusing on collaboration, instructional planning, and differentiated instruction that ensures meaningful access and participation. Each session delves into practical strategies for fostering shared responsibility, enhancing student engagement, and navigating common challenges in co-taught classrooms. Participants will gain insights into various co-teaching models and reflect on how to apply these approaches to promote inclusive, student-centered learning environments.

Each session includes supporting materials and activities designed to facilitate transfer of learning from the webinar into your practice.

Webinar #1: Overview of Co-Teaching Principles, Practices, and Models

The first webinar in this series provides a comprehensive overview of co-teaching, clarifying what it is—and what it is not—to help educators establish effective partnerships. Participants will explore the guiding principles of co-teaching, focusing on the distinct roles and responsibilities of each teacher. The session also examines the pros and cons of various co-teaching models, offering insights into how each can be effectively implemented to enhance student learning outcomes.

Webinar #2: Developing and Maintaining a Strong Co-Teaching Partnership

The second webinar delves further into the distinct roles and responsibilities of teachers in a co-teaching partnership, highlighting strategies to avoid common challenges and pitfalls that can undermine effective collaboration. Participants will examine the importance of maintaining parity between co-teachers, securing dedicated time for co-planning, and fostering effective communication practices that support ongoing reflection and instructional adjustments. The session also explores the stages of co-teaching implementation, providing guidance on how to support effective collaboration throughout each phase.

Webinar #3: Ensuring Universal Access in the Co-Taught Classroom

The third webinar in the series focuses on implementing Universal Design for Learning (UDL) within co-teaching environments to ensure meaningful access for all learners. Participants will explore the three core principles of UDL—multiple means of engagement, representation, and action/expression—and how each uniquely addresses the how, who, and what of curriculum design. The session will clarify the differences between UDL and differentiated instruction, emphasizing UDL’s proactive, design-centered approach. Additionally, the webinar will introduce resources for assessing classroom environment accessibility and offer lesson planning suggestions that intentionally integrate UDL and co-teaching concepts that support access for all learners.