The Learning Experience

S05., Ep 9: From Awareness to Action: Advancing Accessibility for Everyone

CAST — Tue, 05 May 2026 06:30:00 -0400

In recognition of Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD), this episode explores why accessibility matters and how each of us can help create more inclusive learning and digital environments.

We are joined by an accessibility expert and recent PhD graduate, Dr. Wendy Velez-Torres, who shares her journey into the field, the passion that drives her work, and how her research is helping move accessibility forward. Together, we discuss common misconceptions about accessibility, practical steps organizations can take to improve access, and how designing accessibility in mind benefits everyone.

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S05., Ep 8: Exploring Perspectives of Accessibility & UDL in EdTech Focus Group

CAST — Tue, 07 Apr 2026 06:30:00 -0400

In this episode, we go behind the scenes of a CAST-led focus group exploring accessibility and Universal Design for Learning (UDL) in educational technology, specifically within assessment practices. Our guests share why they took a unique, UDL-informed approach to designing the focus group experience and what it really means to apply UDL to stakeholder engagement. Whether you're designing tools, shaping policy, or facilitating conversations, this episode offers a powerful look at how designing for variability leads to better outcomes for everyone.

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Secret Stash Ep2: UDL‑Con 2025 David Rose Research Awardee: Anya Evmenova

CAST — Tue, 17 Mar 2026 06:30:00 -0400

In this bonus episode, Bryan chats with Anya Evmenova, the UDL‑Con 2025 David Rose Research Award winner, about her work advancing Universal Design for Learning through research and practice. Anya shares how her research connects to real learning experiences, why accessibility and evidence matter in everyday design decisions, and what it means to be recognized with the David Rose Research Award. Along the way, they reflect on lessons from the field and where UDL‑aligned research and innovation are headed next.

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S05., Ep 7: AI in the Classroom: What Utah is Building & Why it Matters

CAST — Tue, 03 Mar 2026 06:20:55 -0500

This episode is brought to you by ReadSpeaker. Learn more about how ReadSpeaker aligns with UDL.

In this episode, we talk with Matt Winters, a leader from the Utah State Board of Education about how artificial intelligence is shaping the future of teaching and learning. We explore Utah’s statewide approach to AI, what it means for educators and students, and how schools can balance innovation with responsibility. This conversation offers practical insights and big-picture thinking for anyone curious about the role of AI in education.

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Featured Episode: Listen Next on The Learning Experience

Explore how Utah is building one of the most forward‑looking AI strategies in K–12 and what it means for teaching, learning, and equity in the classroom. Hear from Matt Winters, AI Education Specialist for the Utah State Board of Education, about practical implications for educators, students, and responsible innovation in schools—and then bring these insights back to your own context. This special episode is sponsored by ReadSpeaker. Listen here: https://bit.ly/414xe6l

Secret Stash Ep1: An Interview with Michelle Ring-Hanson and JoAnn Miller-UDL-Con 2025 Innovative Practice Awardees

CAST — Tue, 17 Feb 2026 06:30:00 -0500

In this bonus episode, Bryan sits down with Michelle Ring-Hanson and JoAnn Miller to explore their long‑standing UDL work in Wisconsin and the practical systems they’ve built to support inclusive teaching. The conversation highlights their UDL Mentor Toolkit, how it supports educators in translating UDL into daily practice, and what it means to be recognized with a UDL‑Con 2025 Innovative Practice Award. Together, they share lessons from the field, reflections on mentorship, and what’s next for scaling UDL‑aligned innovation.

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UDL Implementation Trials Mentor Toolkit (Open source, must sign up)
UDL Awards

S05., Ep 6: Beyond the Visible: Accessibility, Inclusion, and Academic Stress

CAST — Tue, 03 Feb 2026 06:30:00 -0500

In this insightful episode, Kelli, Bryan and Luis talk with Elizabeth Hitches, an educator and researcher passionate about building truly inclusive learning environments. Elizabeth shares her own accessibility journey, from realizing how often access is overlooked in education to intentionally designing learning experiences that make every student feel valued and considered.

Together, they unpack the importance of addressing both apparent and non-apparent disabilities, exploring how proactive, Universal Design for Learning (UDL)-informed choices, like recording lectures or adding captions, reduce barriers and benefit all learners.

Elizabeth also shares her research on academic stress, highlighting how accessibility and co-designing with students can reduce stressors before they arise. This conversation invites educators to rethink accessibility not as an add-on, but as a foundation for equitable, human-centered teaching.

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S05., Ep 5: Ergonomics Meets UDL: Designing Classrooms That Work for Every Body

CAST — Tue, 06 Jan 2026 06:30:00 -0500

When most people hear “ergonomics,” they often think of office chairs and adjustable desks, but in education, it’s so much more. In this episode, Kelli and Luis sit down with an occupational therapist, Elisa Wern, who supports students with complex communication and physical needs to explore how ergonomics and Universal Design for Learning (UDL) intersect.

From posture, positioning, and classroom setup to how learners physically access assistive technology, this conversation dives into the small ergonomic changes that make a big impact on participation, comfort, and engagement for all learners. You’ll walk away with practical, UDL-aligned tips you can implement tomorrow to make your learning space work better for every body.

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Elisa Wern: elisa@atotcc.com
Infographic Ergonomics 101
Backpack Awareness

S.05, Ep. 4: Design Without Tradeoffs: The Power to Include Everyone

CAST — Tue, 02 Dec 2025 06:30:00 -0500

In this episode, hosts Kelli and Luis sit down with accessibility expert David Berman to explore what it truly means to have “the power to include everyone.” Together, they unpack how accessibility can and should be designed without tradeoffs, making inclusion an intentional part of every system and space. David breaks down the upcoming ADA Title II updates and what they mean for schools and public institutions, while also shining light on global accessibility shifts happening in Europe and beyond.

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Resources:

David Berman’s article on Accessible Online Meetings
David Berman’s GAAD 2025 keynote presentation for higher education (featuring the upcoming ADA deadlines named in the Title II Final Rule)
David Berman’s crowdsourced, curated eAccessibility Library
David’s Do Good Design book, published in 7 languages

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

CAST — Tue, 04 Nov 2025 05:00:00 -0500

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.

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S.05, Ep. 2: Dismantling Barriers for Neurodivergent Learners

CAST — Tue, 07 Oct 2025 06:31:00 -0400

In this episode, we sit down with Kris Astle from SMART Technologies and Dr. Matt Harrison from the University of Melbourne to explore research centered on neurodivergent student voices. We discuss why these learners are rarely consulted in technology design and delivery, and how their feedback shaped 36 actionable recommendations. Together, we unpack how Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles intersect with neurodiversity-affirming practices, ensuring technology truly supports agency, inclusion, and success.

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S.05, Ep. 1: Breaking Barriers with CITES: Designing Tech Systems for All

CAST — Tue, 09 Sep 2025 06:30:00 -0400

What exactly is the CITES Framework? It is certainly not another initiative! In this episode, we dive into the Center on Inclusive Technology & Education Systems (CITES) and explore how it stands apart from but aligned with other frameworks. Our guest, Mia Laudato, shares why building an inclusive technology ecosystem is essential for schools, how districts can take their first steps toward creating one, and where AI fits into the bigger picture. Spoiler alert: it’s not all about high-tech tools — it’s about designing systems that remove barriers and create access for every learner.

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S.04, Ep. 9: Digital Literacy in the Age of Misinformation

CAST — Tue, 10 Jun 2025 10:39:07 -0400

In this episode, we dive into the critical topic of digital literacy, unpacking the difference between misinformation (false information shared without harmful intent) and disinformation (deliberately deceptive content). We discuss practical strategies educators and learners can use to navigate today’s overwhelming information landscape. Whether you're teaching students or sharpening your own skills, this episode offers timely insights to help you filter fact from fiction in an age of digital overload.

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S.04, Ep. 8: UDL Across the Pond

CAST — Tue, 27 May 2025 06:30:00 -0400

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Carol Allen, a renowned UK educator and the keynote speaker for the UDL-Con International Conference. Carol shares powerful stories from her decades of experience supporting all learners—especially students with disabilities. With warmth, humor, and deep insight, she reflects on what it truly means to design learning that includes everyone.

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S.04, Ep. 7: UDL Beyond the Bricks with Lego Education

CAST — Tue, 13 May 2025 06:30:00 -0400

In this episode, we sit down with the team from LEGO® Education to explore the intersection of Universal Design for Learning (UDL), accessibility, and hands-on, playful learning. Hear the inspiring journey that led them to embrace UDL principles in their work—and how those principles shaped the development of LEGO Education Science, their newest K–8 product. Discover how this innovative resource invites every learner into science through curiosity, creativity, and collaboration. From classroom experiences to design decisions, this conversation is packed with insights on how UDL helps unlock learning for all students—brick by brick.

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S.04, Ep. 6: Tech Isn’t Inclusive Until It’s Designed to Be

CAST — Tue, 29 Apr 2025 06:30:00 -0400

In this episode, the hosts dive into the heart of what makes technology truly inclusive. They explore how Universal Design for Learning (UDL) can shape tech tools that work for all learners, not just some. Through conversations about human-centered design, they discuss when technology becomes assistive—and why that label matters. Tune in for a thoughtful look at designing tech that doesn’t just include but empowers.

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S.04, Ep. 5: Andratesha Fritzgerald on Stories That Shape Education

CAST — Tue, 15 Apr 2025 06:30:00 -0400

With guest podcast host, Allison Posey, this episode features Andratesha Fritzgerald, author of Antiracism and Universal Design for Learning. In honor of Black History Month, Andratesha shares how storytelling shapes education, inspires action, and creates meaningful learning experiences for all students. Together, they’ll explore the educators, experiences, and lessons that have fueled their passion for teaching and learning, and how UDL serves as a tool for creating more dynamic, responsive, and supportive learning environments.

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S.04, Ep. 4: Universal Design for Learning and Mental Health

CAST — Tue, 01 Apr 2025 06:32:00 -0400

This conversation with Dr. Hillary Goldthwait-Fowles explores the intersection of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and mental health, discussing how inclusive educational practices can support student well-being. The conversation highlights how UDL supports can help reduce stress, anxiety, and barriers to learning.

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S.04, Ep. 3: Makenzie's Mission to Empower Learners

CAST — Tue, 18 Mar 2025 06:32:00 -0400

We chatted with Makenzie, a freshman high school student and a passionate advocate for students with dyslexia. She shares her journey of raising awareness through speaking to students and educators across the midwest, and presenting at national conferences. Makenzie discusses her experiences in the classroom, the importance of supporting neurodiverse learners, and her vision for a future where all students have access to the resources they need to succeed.

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S.04, Ep. 2: Learning Through UDL Stories: Jennifer L. Pusateri on Transforming Teaching

CAST — Tue, 04 Mar 2025 06:30:00 -0500

Discover how Universal Design for Learning (UDL) transforms teaching in this episode of Learning Through UDL Stories, hosted by Allison Posey. Special guest Jennifer L. Pusateri, author of Transform Your Teaching with Universal Design for Learning: Six Steps to Jumpstart Your Practice, shares six practical steps to help educators integrate UDL into their classrooms. Whether you’re new to UDL or looking to refine your approach, Jennifer offers actionable insights that educators can apply immediately. Tune in to explore real-world strategies and learn how to create flexible, student-centered learning environments.

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S.04, Ep. 1: New Year of UDL, Accessibility, & Assistive Intelligence? Oh my!

CAST — Tue, 18 Feb 2025 06:30:00 -0500

Kick off the new year with hosts Kelli Suding, Luis Pérez, and Bryan Dean as they dive into the latest in Universal Design for Learning (UDL), accessibility, and the evolving role of assistive (artificial) intelligence. In this episode, they discuss emerging trends, real-world applications, and strategies for creating more inclusive learning experiences. Don't miss this insightful conversation on breaking down barriers!

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S.04,Ep.0: Let’s Get This Started!

CAST — Fri, 14 Feb 2025 11:08:27 -0500

Welcome to Season 4 of The Learning Experience powered by CAST! Join hosts Kelli Suding, Luis Pérez, and Bryan Dean as they bring you inspiring conversations and real-world examples of breaking down barriers to learning. Each episode explores the latest innovations in accessibility and Universal Design for Learning (UDL), helping to create more equitable learning experiences for all. Hit subscribe and join us on this journey!

S04E00_Transcript.docx

Resources:

CAST website at cast.org

S.03, Ep.11: ADA Title II Updates and Requirements

CAST — Tue, 16 Jul 2024 06:30:00 -0400

In April 2024, the United States Department of Justice issued a final rule requiring state and local governmental entities — including early childhood, elementary, secondary, and postsecondary institutions — to ensure web or mobile app-based digital learning resources are appropriate for and usable by students with disabilities. Join CAST’s AEM Center to break down the updates and requirements and what that means for schools.

Note: This is a podcast version of an AEMing for Access session on the Title II updates.

4 Key Takeaways:

Don’t wait to start ensuring your website and documents are accessible and following the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 AA.
Take into consideration your current contracts with vendors and new contracts to ensure accessibility is part of your procurement process.
Know your baseline, what is already accessible, what is not accessible this will help you prioritize where to start.

Visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠aem.cast.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for show notes. If you’re getting value out of this podcast, please share it with others and let us know by providing a rating and commenting wherever you get your podcasts!

The contents of this podcast were developed under a cooperative agreement with the US Department of Education, #H327Z190004. However, those contents do not necessarily represent the policy of the US Department of Education and you should not assume endorsement by the Federal Government. Project Officer: Rebecca Sheffield, Ph.D.

S.03, Ep.10: Get Ready for UDL Guidelines 3.0

CAST — Tue, 18 Jun 2024 15:37:39 -0400

We are excited to bring you this episode to wrap up Season 3 of the Accessible Learning Experience with a discussion of the updated Universal Design for Learning (UDL) Guidelines. Universal Design for Learning is the framework CAST has pioneered over the last 40 years to assist educators in optimizing teaching and learning so that it works for everyone, and accessibility is a foundational component of UDL. We are lucky to have with us on this episode Jenna Gravel and Nicole Tucker Smith, who have led a community-focused, accessible and transparent process for ensuring the updated guidelines reflect the best thinking in the field as well as in the research literature.

Visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠aem.cast.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for show notes. If you’re getting value out of this podcast, please share it with others and let us know by providing a rating and commenting wherever you get your podcasts!

S.03, Ep.09: Accessibility in Correctional Settings

CAST — Tue, 07 May 2024 13:40:35 -0400

The correctional setting is one that is often overlooked when it comes to accessibility and inclusive learning opportunities, but it is a setting where these are most needed. On this episode, we are excited to welcome CAST Career and Technical Education and UDL trainer Donald Walker to the podcast. Donald is joined by Jennifer Montag, Director of Disability Services at Marion Technical College, which offers a number of programs that take place in a correctional setting. As Jennifer explains, programs that provide access to educational opportunities in correctional settings can have a positive impact not only on the lives of the individuals enrolled in those programs, but on the community that receives them once their term is over. In essence, we all benefit when those in corrections are able to grow and improve their lives through education.

Visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠aem.cast.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for show notes. If you’re getting value out of this podcast, please share it with others and let us know by providing a rating and commenting wherever you get your podcasts!

S.03, Ep.08: An AAC User’s Perspective on Inclusion with Jordyn Zimmerman

CAST — Tue, 09 Apr 2024 08:00:00 -0400

We are so excited to bring you this interview with Jordyn Zimmerman, a passionate educator and disability advocate who is currently the Head of Product Strategy at the Nora Project. Jordyn was diagnosed as autistic at a young age, but she did not receive access to augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) until the age of 18. Her own lived experience fuels her beliefs about leveraging tools and supports to drive change around inclusion for all learners. Among her many accomplishments, Jordyn has twice been appointed to the Presidential Committee for People with Intellectual Disabilities and her work has been published in the Boston Globe and the New York Times.

Note: You will hear some long pauses between the question and Jordyn’s answer because we’ve done our best to preserve the authenticity of Jordyn’s communication experience.

(00:00) Introduction

(01:21) Question 1 Accessibility Story

(06:55) Question 1 Response

(07:52) Question 2 Empowering Factors

(18:18) Question 2 Response

(20:05) Question 3 Impact of Technology

(26:55) Question 3 Response

(27:44) Question 4 Accessible Educational Materials

(33:32) Question 4 Response

(34:12) Question 5 Advice to Educators

(41:33) Question 5 Response

(42:30) Question 6 Contact Information

(45:33) Question 6 Response

(46:26) Closing

Visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠aem.cast.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ for show notes. If you’re getting value out of this podcast, please share it with others and let us know by providing a rating and commenting wherever you get your podcasts!

S.03, Ep.07: A Student's Perspective: Connor Joyce

CAST — Tue, 12 Mar 2024 08:00:00 -0400

A key goal for this podcast is to share the lived experience of learners who use and benefit from providing accessible educational materials and technologies. In that spirit, this month we are lucky to have Connor Joyce on the podcast. Connor is a student at Gettysburg College double majoring in Emerging Threats in National Security and Political Science and minoring in History. In 2018 he was awarded the first copy of Pennsylvania House Resolution Bill No. 1044, which designated October as dyslexia awareness day in the Commonwealth, and in 2021, he received the Pennsylvania Governor's Civic Engagement Award for his work in the community.

Visit ⁠⁠⁠aem.cast.org⁠⁠⁠ for show notes. If you’re getting value out of this podcast, please share it with others and let us know by providing a rating and commenting wherever you get your podcasts!

S.03, Ep.06: What’s New from the Technical Assistance Centers at CAST

CAST — Tue, 13 Feb 2024 06:30:00 -0500

The federally-funded Technical Assistance centers based at CAST are always working on new resources to help the field implement best practices in the provision and effective use of high-quality accessible materials and technologies. This month, we are pleased to share two new resources from the AEM Center. Michelle Soriano shares information about a new Family’s Guide to Accessible Educational Materials designed to help parents and caregivers work with their child’s teachers and education team to make sure each child receives the AEM they need in a timely manner. Kelli Suding then introduces a new Online Learning Series on Accessible Materials and Technologies, which are delivered through Canvas and are ready for you all to add to your professional development offerings. But first, we have the pleasure of introducing our new AEM Center Project Director, Dr. Elizabeth Barker. Elizabeth brings a wealth of experience with accessibility and has a rich background in special education as well. We are thrilled to have her on our small but mighty team!

Visit ⁠⁠aem.cast.org⁠⁠ for show notes. If you’re getting value out of this podcast, please share it with others and let us know by providing a rating and commenting wherever you get your podcasts!

S.03, Ep.05: Inclusive Early Childhood Education for Students with Visual Impairments

CAST — Tue, 09 Jan 2024 06:30:00 -0500

Diana Garcia-Mejia is a Pre-K teacher of students with visual impairments who is passionate about accessibility and inclusion for all students. On this episode, Diana shares many practical tips and ideas for ensuring young learners with visual impairments get off to a strong start in their educational journey. That includes learning about braille and other supports, including assistive technology, as early as possible. The conversation with AEM Center Technical Assistance Specialist Luis Perez touches on the importance of involving families in braille education for young learners, ensuring representation by providing role models for young learners with visual disabilities to emulate and be inspired by, and much more. Stay tuned to the end to learn about an exciting project Diana was involved in: What I Can Be Is Up to Me, an accessible children’s book featuring characters who are blind or visually impaired.

S.03, Ep.04: UDL, Accessibility, and Podcasting: A Conversation with Loui Lord Nelson

CAST — Tue, 12 Dec 2023 07:00:00 -0500

For our final episode of 2023, we are excited to welcome Loui Lord Nelson to the podcast. Loui, who herself is a master podcaster and the creator of the popular UDL in 15 minutes podcast, is an international UDL educator, consultant, speaker, and author. She has worked with schools, districts, universities, and ministries of education around the world to support UDL implementation and research, and you will hear about some of those experiences in this episode. Loui will share her UDL journey which began at Bartholomew Consolidated School Corporation (BCSC) in Columbus, Indiana, her insights on the importance of accessibility for UDL practitioners, and her tips for getting started with accessible podcasting as a way to grow the UDL community by sharing the work of the many great educators she has met on her UDL journey.

Visit ⁠aem.cast.org⁠ for show notes. If you’re getting value out of this podcast, please share it with others and let us know by providing a rating and commenting wherever you get your podcasts!

S.03, Ep.03: Building Inclusive Technology Systems, Stories From CITES Districts

CAST — Tue, 14 Nov 2023 08:00:00 -0500

On this episode, we welcome CITES Framework Development District partners Janna Greathouse and Samantha Reid with Jenks Public Schools in Oklahoma, and Bijul Dalal with Grossmont Union High School District in California. Janna and Bijul serve as their districts’ assistive technology leads, while Samantha Reid serves her district as the ed-tech lead. CAST Senior Technical Assistance Specialist and CITES Project Director Maggie Pickett talks with Janna, Samantha, and Bijul to pull back the curtain and share their stories about what worked to build and sustain inclusive technology ecosystems in their districts.

S.03, Ep.02: Fostering Inclusive Early Childhood Education

CAST — Tue, 10 Oct 2023 08:00:00 -0400

The AEM Center has enjoyed an exciting partnership with Step Up AT and the Early Childhood Technical Assistance Center (ECTA) . On this episode, CAST Technical Assistance Specialist Maggie Pickett is joined by Michelle Schladant and Austin Garilli from Step Up AT and Jani Kazlowski from ECTA to discuss how their respective centers are working to foster more inclusive learning in early childhood settings. All three centers are funded by the Office of Special Education Programs to improve outcomes for children with disabilities. Over the past year, the teams collaborated on a workshop series to help early childhood education providers better understand how the use of assistive technology (or AT) and accessible educational materials (or AEM) relates to the successful development of infants, toddlers, and preschoolers with disabilities.