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Assistive technology plays a crucial role in education, by removing barriers to learning, especially for students who face challenges in traditional classroom settings. It is becoming a greater priority within education.
For the first time, the UK’s Department for Education plans to include training on assistive technology for all new teachers. There is a vast range of assistive technology from mobility aids to communication tools and visual aids.
Tip or idea: Learning Village is a member of BATA (British Assistive Technology Association), a UK-based organisation dedicated to ensuring that assistive technology (AT) transforms lives. It champions the use of AT to enhance independence, accessibility, and learning outcomes for individuals with diverse needs. By working with educators, policymakers, and technology providers, BATA aims to create a more inclusive learning environment for all students.
To find out more, visit www.bataonline.org
Learning Village resource: AI tools such as text-to-speech can support your learners. Our Fun ways to improve English using AI technology article and associated resource explore this topic further.
Learners with speech and language difficulties may find it difficult to remember words or think or the word they want to use when they are talking.
Tip or Idea: Think of a category such as ‘animals’ or ‘things in a kitchen’ and then see how many words you can name. Each time you think of a word place a Lego piece on top of another and see how tall a tower you can build!
Being able to understand and use a range of adjectives can help learners to communicate successfully. Adjectives are essential for adding information or interest to their spoken or written language. They also enable learners to differentiate between items.
It is widely recognised that young people and their families should be at the heart of their educational journey. The phrase “nothing about us without us” simply and powerfully reflects the need to include young people and their families in decisions that affect them. Pupil voice can provide crucial insights into the needs of young people with SEND. Parents can also provide a valuable overview of a child’s needs, strengths, and challenges. Using these insights to guide learning opportunities can enhance engagement, enjoyment and, ultimately, progress.