Technology for the Education of Children with Special Needs
Ajmer/India
Since 1988, ASED’s partner RMKM has provided comprehensive services in the disability sector, including Inclusive Education, Therapeutic Interventions, Mobility Aids & appliances, Advocacy, and Livelihood through vocational training. Recognizing education as a potent tool for social change, RMKM emphasizes providing quality education to children with special needs (CWSN) to break the cycle of poverty and exclusion.
RMKM discovered that technology offered a diverse range of learning opportunities and approaches that engage, instruct, and support special education students effectively. Innovative ways were explored to facilitate remote learning, such as the use of smartphones to enhance classroom teaching. Integrating technology in special education emerged as a promising avenue to enhance inclusivity, engagement, and learning outcomes for all students.
It was thus decided to equip the classrooms of three locations with Smart Boards.
Three smart panels were installed at the Minu School Chachiyawas Ajmer in February and March 2024. These panels were specifically designated for use in classes 1, 3, and 8, which are all-inclusive classrooms. Extramarks, known for its expertise in providing Smart Boards and software solutions, facilitated the entire installation process. Teachers received comprehensive training in the utilization of the Boards, equipping them with the necessary skills to effectively integrate technology into their teaching methodologies.
Teachers have observed that in classes where the Smart Boards have been installed, there have already been positive impacts on student engagement and learning. In Grade I, for example, Mr. Hardayal Singh found it easier to engage all children, including those with hearing impairments, using sign language alongside instructional content on the board. In Grade VIII, Ms. Manju Sharma highlighted the revolutionary impact of the Smart Boards on teaching patterns: she now plans to incorporate additional activities developed by RMKM into virtual versions for enhanced academic material.
Mrs. Manju Sharma, Teacher, Minu School
‘I am teaching Grade 8I. Before the installation of Smartboards, we used to conduct teaching sessions using books and Teaching Learning Materials (TLM). There were challenges in explaining concepts to students with special needs, and we had to use cellphones for better comprehension. With the Smart Boards, there has been a significant change in the teaching process. Students are now more attentive, comprehending all topics thoroughly. They are also learning to operate the Boards: including writing on the whiteboard, erasing, and creating images. This has sparked an interest among students in learning, enhancing their engagement in the learning process.
First results: Overall, the integration of Smart Boards has enhanced the learning experience for CWSNs by providing interactive, engaging, and accessible educational content tailored to their individual needs and abilities. With the current 3 smartboards installed, the pilot phase plan involves observing the effectiveness of technology integration in education. Teachers are collaborating to conduct demo teaching sessions, sharing insights and best practices, while also evaluating the effectiveness of technology integration in real classroom scenarios. Feedback from educators will shape future strategies and improvements in the project implementation.