Using EdTech in SEND environments
EdTech for SEND is an important part of modern education. Discover how to best use yours here.
Using EdTech in SEND environments
EdTech for SEND is an important part of modern education. Discover how to best use yours here.
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Supporting SEND Students with EdTech: A Path to Inclusion
Students with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) often have unique needs in the classroom, requiring tailored support to fully access learning opportunities in line with their peers. With over 1.5 million SEND students in England’s schools, according to the DfE in 2023, addressing their needs is a pressing priority for educators.
Educational technology is transforming the learning environment for SEND pupils. By offering alternative ways to engage with lessons and communicate ideas, EdTech ensures that these students can thrive alongside their peers, fostering a more inclusive and enriching classroom experience.
The Role of EdTech in SEND Classrooms
EdTech simplifies the complexities of managing diverse needs within a busy classroom, ensuring no student is left behind. Tools designed to enhance visual, cognitive, auditory, and motor skills help create an equitable learning environment. However, the full potential of technology needs unlocking.
Focus and Control
SEND students, particularly those with autism or ADHD, often struggle with focus and overstimulation. Technology can provide teachers with tools to support this, meeting individual needs and enhancing classroom management.
Interactive touchscreens with screen-share capabilities are a powerful resource. Teachers can share content directly to pupils' devices, determining what they see and interact with. Helping pupils to focus on lesson content without feeling overwhelmed.
Accessibility Tools
Accessibility tools are vital for helping SEND students engage with lessons in ways that meet their unique needs. Features like screen readers, coloured filters, and alternative controls empower students to interact with content and communicate ideas confidently.
Participation is key to learning. When students feel included and able to contribute, they are more likely to retain information and build connections with their peers. Confidence in the classroom will have a profound impact on a SEND pupil’s ability to succeed.
Bridging the Gap
EdTech isn’t about lowering expectations; it’s about removing barriers. SEND students have incredible potential, and technology provides a pathway to unlock it.
By promoting independence, EdTech reduces reliance on adult intervention, empowering students to take control of their learning. This independence builds self-esteem, ensuring students feel capable and included in class. When students are given the tools to succeed, they develop confidence in their abilities, which in turn translates into better outcomes both academically and socially.
To maximise impact, teachers must be supported by the right training:
- Understanding the technology: Teachers need the skills to confidently use EdTech and understand its potential to support SEND students.
- Integrating technology into teaching practice: Seamless integration ensures EdTech complements effective teaching strategies.
Understanding the skills of your teachers will highlight digital champions within your school who can lead by example, share best practices, and support other staff to become proficient in using technology effectively to support SEND pupils.
Our training team have extensive classroom experience and understand the unique classroom challenges you may face and how to overcome them.
We're always here to help - Contact us to find out more.
EdTech Solutions for SEND Classrooms
The SMART RX: Leading the Way in Inclusive Technology
At Elementary Technology, we prioritise solutions that address the unique needs of schools and trusts. The SMART RX interactive touchscreen is a prime example of how technology can transform SEND education.
Designed with inclusivity in mind, the SMART RX combines innovative hardware and software to encourage collaboration and communication between teachers and students:
- Device Connectivity: Pupils’ devices connect seamlessly to the screen, empowering collaboration for group tasks, discussions, and interactive activities.
- Two-Way Interaction: Students can contribute to lessons directly from their devices, encouraging teamwork between pairs, groups, or as a class.
- Supporting Contribution: Anonymous participation features, such as whole-class whiteboards, allow students to express ideas without fear of judgement.
- Physical Interaction: Tool Explorer®, SMART’s programmable stamps, cubes and pens, let pupils engage physically with content, encouraging creative expression in a way that’s inclusive and accessible.
These tools don’t just support learning; they bring the classroom together, creating a shared environment where every pupil can thrive.
Creating an Inclusive Classroom
By integrating EdTech into everyday teaching, schools can create a truly inclusive learning environment where SEND students feel valued, confident, and capable. The SMART RX is one example of this but there are many more.
Having a visualiser on your desk is a great way to support learners with a visual impairment. Small details such as 3D objects that you are sharing with the class can be enlarged onto a large screen that all students can see.
You know your pupils and their needs. What barriers do they face? What technology would support you in delivering accessible learning? What impact could this have?
The effective combination of innovative hardware and training to support teachers is a step towards ensuring every child has the opportunity to succeed.
If you’re looking to explore how EdTech can support SEND students in your school, we’re here to help. Contact us today to learn more.
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