Page 44 - SEN113 SEN Magazine July-August 2021-V3

EDdyuslceaxtiiaonal technology How can we better engage digital learning for SEN pupils? Emma Crampton and Isla Billett look at the benefits of tech-enabled learning 44 A digital divide While the pandemic has challenged most school-age children, it has presented especially tough, unique challenges to SEN pupils, their parents and carers. Though everyone’s experiences in the past year have differed, the pandemic has ultimately exposed a ‘digital divide’, showing how a whole-community approach is needed to support online learning. This is especially true where supplementary SEN-focused devices, software and support are integral to the learning process. Responses to lockdown have also brought out the potential, and capacity, for technology to support flexible learning in and out of the classroom; something that hasn’t always been possible for SEN pupils until now. Pearson’s recent survey of over 6,800 educators highlighted that digital skills among teachers and students in the UK have soared during the pandemic (81% and 64% respectively). Similarly, 90% of UK learners in Pearson’s Global Learner Survey felt that online learning would be a part of children’s education experience moving forward. So how can we build on this momentum? As schools undertake a return to life in the classroom, it’s an opportune time to reflect on what we’ve learned about tech-enabled learning this past year. Bolstered by these lessons, we can explore how to harness technology and its advances, not only to support “Technology to support flexible learning” educational progress for every child, but to pave the way for a more permanently inclusive society, post-pandemic. As a starting point, below is a collection of tips, ideas and practical advice we’ve gathered through our research in recent months. The aim: to support you in your reflections and explorations of continuing to create safe, supportive digital experiences for SEN pupils. The power of collaboration The benefits of collaborative learning are well established – from building key listening, teamwork and conflict-resolution skills, to improving self-esteem, confidence and motivation (Johnson et al, 2009). With the shift to online classrooms, many tools and platforms have emerged to enable joint creation and shared understanding. SEN113 senmagazine.co.uk