Improved learning opportunities for special educational needs pupil

Interactive technology creates improved learning opportunities for special educational needs pupil

A Promethean Presenta panel has created many valuable learning opportunities for one special educational needs pupil at South Chadderton High School, Lancashire. The installation of the LCD display screen at the beginning of term enabled the visually impaired student to begin her secondary education with ease.

We spoke to Tim Bamber, Transition Learning Mentor at South Chadderton about the introduction of this technology at the school, and how he feels it has impacted upon this student’s education.

What was Needed?

Tim recognised that support would be required to assist Special Educational Needs (SEN) pupil Melissa Thornton to fully participate in lessons taught with a Promethean interactive whiteboard. Possibilities such as the use of video cameras or an enlarger for the pupil's laptop soon became unrealistic as the problems of wiring and transportation between lessons became impractical for the school environment.

The Solution

As the school already had 24 Promethean interactive boards, the school approached Azzurri Communications, formerly F.H Brown, with the request to find a solution.

Promethean AV recognised that the LCD panel would provide an excellent resource for the student, as her personal small screen would enable her to see what was appearing on the board at the front of the class.

The Verdict

Assessing the impact the technology has had on the pupil, Tim Bamber added: "The benefits for Melissa have been immeasurable. The ability for her to participate fully in lessons and contribute ideas from her seat have definitely aided her understanding and on going development.

"Keith Cotterill of Azzurri Communications agreed saying: "As Melissa has demonstrated, it is essential that schools are aware of the resources that are available to them and the benefits that interactive whiteboards and supporting products like the panel can bring to any classroom."

Steve Dracup, Promethean AV Managing Director highlighted the advantages that the panel has for children with special needs. "We are always striving to identify the benefits that interactive whiteboards and associated products can have within all aspects of education. This individual case has proven that this technology can really improve the quality of a pupil's education through interaction".