Software for Students with Special Needs - Introduction

Categories of Software Reinforcement (Drill & Practice Software) Interactive Books (Talking Stories) Content-free Software Exploratory Software Reference Software Assessment Software Access Tools / Software

Reinforcement Software Used to reinforce basic skills through repetition and practice. Numeracy Software – early numeracy skills, more advanced mathematical skills Literacy Software – early literacy skills, sight word recognition, phonological skills and reading comprehension.

Reinforcement Software Benefits Helps to develop skills and reinforce concepts and knowledge Provides repeated practice on previously learned skills Gives immediate, consistent feedback in non-judgemental fashion Concerns Should be used to complement teacher instruction, not replace it Skills are often presented in isolation

Reinforcement Software Examples include: All My Words First Keys Fuzz Buzz Lexia Reading for Literacy

Reinforcement Software examples cont’d Speaking for myself Starspell Type to learn Wordshark / Numbershark

Reinforcement Software Integrated Learning system (ILS) Computer-based system that manages delivery of curriculum Presents learners with a question, records the response, gives instant feedback and automatically selects new questions Provides feedback and detailed records

Reinforcement Software Integrated Learning system (ILS) Results are highly context dependent Level of teacher intervention is critical factor Teachers’ involvement with system is major factor to student gains Where pupils use ILS in isolation from their teacher and from the rest of the curriculum, both learning gains and motivation are likely to be poor.

Reinforcement Software Integrated Learning system (ILS) Examples include: The Academy of Reading Global Integrated Learning System RM Maths Tomorrow’s Promise

Interactive Books Animated books that bring stories to life. Usually two modes: Passive- watch and listen as story is read Interactive- click and explore Cater for a range of levels (non-readers to older students with reading difficulties).

Interactive Books Benefits Links written word with spoken words (strengthens word recognition) Improves vocabulary, word attack skills, fluency and comprehension. Gives students the opportunity to practice reading the same text more than one time. Concerns Edutainment value vs. Educational value

Interactive Books Reading Difficulties Visual Impairments Students who benefit from this type may include those with: Reading Difficulties Visual Impairments Speech and Language Difficulties Non- English Speaking Pupils

Interactive Books Examples include: Living Books (e.g. Grandma and Me) Oxford Reading Tree Start to Finish Ukandu Interactive Reading Series Wellington Square