Barriers to learning may be...

• Physical or  sensory 
• Intellectual
• Emotional
• Any combination of these
• I T can help to provide access to learning
• IT can provide support for learning
• SEN teachers need I T skills

Access to the Curriculum

• Language lies at the heart of the curriculum.
• Many pupils have language difficulties, these may be with:
• Speaking
• Listening
• Reading
• Writing
• IT can help but it is not a magic wand!

Pupils with a Physical Disability

• IT may be essential for access for some pupils
• IT can help with written work
• Regular assessment is needed to ensure equipment is suitable
• Pupils and helpers need training and support

IT tools that can offer support

• Communication aids
• Computer access devices - switches, adapted mice, keyguards
• Access utilities and specialized software
• Software with alternative input options
• Word list and word prediction facilities

Pupils with a Visual Impairment

Allow pupils to make the most of their vision when using IT

• Consider the position of the pupil
• Consider the position of the screen
• Consider the clarity of the display
• Use large, clear fonts if they help
• Adjust the colours
• Add speech feedback where possible

IT tools that can offer support

• Talking word processors
• Big pointer utilities
• Screen magnifiers
• Screen readers
• Electronic Braillers
• Closed circuit television

Pupils with Hearing Impairments

Language is a major problem

• IT can be used for language development activities
• Symbol or picture enhanced text can bring meaning to print
• Illustrated Concept Keyboard overlays make writing more accessible
• Access to whole words can aid expression and help pupils to organise their ideas
• Graphics can stimulate writing

IT tools that can offer support

• Symbol generating software
• Word processors
• Concept Keyboards
• Word lists
• Clip art to illustrate writing
• Spell checkers and grammar checkers

Pupils with Dyslexia

• I T can be used for drill and practice
• Such use should be part of a planned programme of activities
• IT can be used to minimise difficulties
• This involves providing tools that enable pupils to overcome their difficulties

IT tools that can offer support

• Specialised programs
• Talking books
• Concept Keyboards
• Word list facilities
• Spell checkers
• Laptop computers
• Talking word processors
• Speech driven writing tools

Pupils with Learning Difficulties

• IT can be a focus for language development activities
• A medium for differentiated activities
• IT can make writing more accessible
• IT can make information more accessible
• IT can enable pupils to practise skills in an enjoyable way

IT tools that can offer support

• Talking books
• CD-ROMs with good sound and graphics and a minimum of text
• Drill and practice programs
• Concept Keyboards
• Word list facilities
• Talking word processors

Pupils with Emotional & Behavioural Difficulties

• IT is motivating
• IT is not threatening or judgmental
• IT can make tasks more manageable
• IT can provide satisfying outcomes

IT tools that can offer support

• Multi-media
• Educational 'games'
• Concept Keyboards
• Word list facilities
• Word predictors
• Spell checkers