Theoretical Foundations
The foundations for the project were Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles, Trauma–Informed Care Principles (TICPs), and an unfolding case study (UCS).
Universal Design for Learning
The purpose of UDL is to promote the development of an inclusive learning environment by integrating three core principles: multiple means of engagement, representation, and action and expression (Meyer et al., 2014). These principles are further broken down into nine guidelines and thirty-one checkpoints, which offer educators concrete suggestions for implementing in practice.
Trauma-Informed Care Principles
TICPs can be used as the basis for an anti-oppressive pedagogical approach that is congruent with and embodied in other frameworks, such as UDL (Thompson & Carello, 2022). The focus of TICP is directed at improving access to education and responding to trauma with empathy and support, while promoting resilience and avoiding re-traumatization to help individuals thrive.
In 2014, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) identified six TCIPs: safety (physical, emotional, social, and academic); trustworthiness and transparency; peer support and connection; collaboration and mutuality; empowerment; voice; and choice, with cultural/historic/gender aspects as a linear approach (see Figure 1). We elected to use this framework to report our findings.
*Click on each TICP to learn how educators can apply and demonstrate these principles in practice.*
