The "Digital Tools for SEN Students" course under the Erasmus+ program aims to equip educators and support staff with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively integrate digital tools into the learning experiences of students with Special Educational Needs (SEN). In an increasingly digital world, it's imperative to ensure that all students, including those with diverse learning needs, have access to appropriate tools and resources to support their educational journey.

 

The course is intended to provide teachers involved in education of pupils with special educational needs (SEN), with an overview of main ways, methods, and principles of information and communication technology (ICT) usage in their professional activities. In our 5-day Erasmus+ KA1 Teacher Training Course, participants will discover web based tools and apps to enhance teaching in Special Needs Education. The course will be delivered through a blend of lectures, interactive sessions, hands-on workshops, case studies, and collaborative activities, facilitated by experienced educators and experts in the field of SEN education and assistive technology.

 

This training course is designed for innovative teachers who wants to take one step forward and to make a difference in their teaching methods in digital future.

 

Target Audience:

 

Teachers, Special Education Teachers, Support Staff, Educational Administrators, Professionals working with SEN students

1. Understanding SEN Requirements: Participants will delve into the various types of SEN and gain insights into the unique learning requirements of students with disabilities, learning disorders, and other challenges.

2. Exploring Digital Accessibility: The course will explore the concept of digital accessibility, emphasizing the importance of designing inclusive learning environments and selecting tools that cater to diverse needs.

3. Introduction to Assistive Technologies: Participants will be introduced to a range of assistive technologies designed to support SEN students, including but not limited to text-to-speech software, speech recognition tools, adaptive keyboards, and screen readers.

4. Hands-on Workshops: Through hands-on workshops and practical exercises, participants will learn how to effectively implement digital tools in the classroom to enhance the learning experiences of SEN students. This includes customization of tools based on individual needs and preferences.

5. Pedagogical Strategies: The course will explore pedagogical approaches and strategies for integrating digital tools seamlessly into teaching practices, fostering engagement, independence, and academic success among SEN students.

6. Collaborative Learning: Participants will have opportunities for collaborative learning and sharing best practices with peers from diverse backgrounds and educational settings, enriching their understanding and repertoire of digital tools for SEN education.

7. Evaluation and Reflection: Throughout the course, emphasis will be placed on evaluation and reflection, encouraging participants to assess the effectiveness of digital tools in meeting the needs of SEN students and to refine their practices accordingly.

Classes will take place from Monday to Friday in the morning hours. 

 

Day 1 - Understanding SEN Requirements and Digital Accessibility:

 

Course Introduction and Presentation of Participants 

Introduction to SEN Education: Participants explore various types of special educational needs (SEN) and understand unique learning requirements of SEN students.

Digital Accessibility Fundamentals: Importance of digital accessibility in education, including principles of inclusive design and accessibility standards.

Workshop: Evaluating Digital Tools for Accessibility: Practical exercises to assess accessibility features of various digital tools, followed by group discussions on tool selection.

 

Day 2 - Exploring Assistive Technologies:

 

Overview of Assistive Technologies for SEN students

Hands-on Training: Using Text-to-Speech and Speech Recognition Tools

Exploring Alternative Input Methods: Introduction to adaptive keyboards, switches, and other alternative input devices for SEN students.

Interactive Whiteboard Applications: Understanding how interactive whiteboards can be utilized as assistive technology tools for SEN students, including collaborative learning activities and interactive lessons.

 

Day 3 - Customizing Tools for Individual Needs:

 

Understanding Individual Needs of SEN Students

Workshop: Customizing Assistive Technologies

Personalized Learning Platforms: Exploration of digital platforms and software that allow for personalized learning experiences tailored to the individual needs of SEN students.

Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) Implementation: Practical guidance on implementing IEPs effectively, including strategies for tracking progress and adjusting interventions based on student needs.

 

Day 4 - Pedagogical Strategies and Collaborative Learning:

 

Pedagogical Approaches for Integrating Digital Tools

Case Studies and Best Practices Sharing

Differentiated Instruction Techniques: Discussion and demonstration of differentiated instruction strategies to accommodate diverse learning needs within the same classroom, including tiered assignments, flexible grouping, and choice boards.

Peer Learning Communities: Establishing peer learning communities to facilitate ongoing support and collaboration among educators working with SEN students, including sharing resources, lesson plans, and troubleshooting challenges.

 

Day 5 - Evaluation and Reflection:

 

Evaluation of Digital Tools in Meeting SEN Requirements: Assessment of the effectiveness of digital tools in addressing SEN needs.

Reflective Practice and Action Planning for Integration: Participants engage in reflective discussions and develop action plans for integrating digital tools into their teaching practices.

Certification of Attendance  

Confirmation of Erasmus+ Mobility documents