1. ICT and Special Educational
Needs (SEN)

2. Communication and interaction
Augmentative and alternative communication
(AAC) :
• symbols
• voice and communication aids (VOCAs)
• software communication aids
Widgit: Writing with
symbols

3. Language difficulties
• Word banks
• Talking word processors
• Talking books
• Overlay keyboards
• Predictive words
• Spelling and grammar checkers

4. Autistic spectrum disorders (ASD)
Computer shouldn’t be used as dominant part of
learning activities
Does offer advantages:
• focal point for concentration
• Errors easily correctible
• Consistent and predictable
• Simple games promote communication with
others
• Video conferencing & video cameras useful

5. Cognition and learning
• SpLD – specific learning difficulty, one learning
area eg: reading or writing
• MLD – moderate learning difficulty, most areas of
curriculum
• SLD – severe learning difficulty, requires regular
support
• PMLD – profound and multiple learning difficulty,
requires high level of adult support
• Dyslexia (literacy), dyscalculia (mathematic),
dyspraxia (movement)

6. Behavioural, emotional and social
difficulties (BESD)
Pupils with emotional and hyperkinetic disorders –
can have an impact on motivation, self-esteem and
achievement
• Interactive Whiteboards can motivate pupils who
don’t participate in whole class activities
• Software – stimulating sound, graphics and
animation
• Interactive voting systems – give confidence to
participate
• Mobile devices – opportunity for autonomous
learning

7. Sensory, physical, medical
Visual impairment – magnifix, narrator, speech
recognition, Windows ‘display options’
Hearing impairment – ShowSounds,
SoundSentry, video clips of British Sign Language
(BSL)
Physical disabilities – Windows keyboard access,
modified keyboards/pointing devices,
switches/buttons

8. Multi sensory rooms

9. English as an additional language
(EAL)
• Word processors
• Overlay keyboards
• Visual aids
• Pictorial and audio software
• Digital story telling
• Web-based resources

10. Gifted and talented (G&T)
• Offer open ended activities that children can
explore independently
• Allow for independent, child-led activities