Inclusive technology in schools refers to the use of technology/equipment that promotes accessibility and supports the learning needs of students with additional needs. Inclusive technology can help ensure that all students have equal opportunities to learn and participate in classroom activities.
- Switches
- Switches (Adaptive Equipment)
- Assistive Devices
- Educational Apps & Software
Switches
Many toys, computers and tablets, software programs and small appliances can now be controlled using a variety of switches/access equipment adapted for different methods of activation. Detailed explanations of the different switches available can be found at https://www.inclusive.com/uk/hardware/switches.html
Switches are used to help support our students in becoming more independent and allows them to access the curriculum, as well as giving them the chance to communicate in different ways.
It’s vital that you have taken some time to understand how pupils might learn about how switches work and the effects they can create through using them.
Linda Burkhart’s ‘Steppingstones to switch access can be found here:
The switch progression road map was created by by Ian Bean 20 years ago and has recently be updated. For a comprehensive theoretical grounding and suggested route of progression for switch users, please consult the documents below.
Switches (Adaptive Equipment)
Switches can be fixed in position in a number of ways. A variety of switch mounts can be found at :
https://www.inclusive.com/uk/catalogsearch/result/?q=switch%20mounts
Assistive devices:
These devices can help students interact with technology, such as a Computers, Vocas and Tablet Devices. All these devices can be made adaptable to help support students engage, become more independent, communicate and access the curriculum. Alternative mouse and keyboards are provided to meet the needs of the students which allows them to access all the technology within the school. These devices are designed to be individualised to support all learners to support them across the curriculum and prepare them for adulthood.
Educational apps and software:
There are many educational apps and software programs available that can be customized to meet the needs of students with different learning styles and abilities. There are 7 banks of iPads in school which allows different curriculum areas in downloading educational apps which meet the needs of the different curriculum areas. Accessibility setting are used to help support the learners and make sure their needs are met to promote inclusion and independence.
It’s important for us to ensure that technology is accessible to all students, regardless of their abilities. This can help create a more inclusive learning environment where all students can reach their full potential and prepare them for adulthood.