Understanding by Design Framework

My concern with the Understanding by design (UBD) framework is that you have to design the unit backwards.  Wiggins and McTighe (2010) believe that you first have clarity about your desired results and the evidence that shows that learning has occurred.  This is shown in this “backward design” which is the UBD framework.  I am use to finding the lessons first and trying to find outcomes that can conform to my lessons.  So my concern would be trying to create the outcomes and then the evidence and finally the activities or lessons that can go with them.  I believe that it is not used often in schools because teachers may not have any concept of where to start with teaching like this and may not have had experiences with this.  It may seem difficult to bring in other discipline areas to the framework.  I would advocate for giving time and priority in the schedule for subjects that aren't tested by making a point to mention that teaching these subjects are just as important as the other subjects that are tested.  Teaching social studies allows the students to develop critical thinking skills and gives them experiences to be caring citizens in the community.

Wiggins, G. & McTighe, J. (2010). Understanding by design: Guide to creating high quality units.

     Association for Supervision and Curriculum Division