S.05, Ep. 3: Designing for Thinking: Executive Function, UDL, and AI in Learning

In this conversation, we sat down with Alexis Reid, an educational therapist, executive function expert, and longtime member of the UDL family. Alexis shares how she first connected with Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and why it continues to shape her work and advocacy. Together, we unpack what executive functioning really means, why it matters across the lifespan, and how educators and caregivers can nurture these skills in practical ways.

Alexis also reflects on her recent CAST book, offering 2–3 key takeaways that listeners can put into practice right away. We then explore the exciting and sometimes complicated role of AI in supporting executive functioning, and how it can either empower or create barriers for learners.
We close with a hopeful look ahead, considering what the future of learning could hold when UDL, executive functioning, and technology come together to dismantle barriers and create more inclusive environments for all learners.

Transcript

Resources:

• Reid Connect
• Reid Connect-ED Podcast
• LinkedIn
• Supporting Student Executive Functions: Insights & Strategies for Educators by CAST Publishing
• @RafaTheVizsla