TechAbility Natspec / Jisc Technology Service Introduction

We believe… Values Statement About Natspec Who we are The membership association for organisations, including colleges and independent providers, which offer specialist provision for students with learning difficulties and/or disabilities We believe… Values Statement Centred on the individualised needs of the young person The importance of specialist expertise and inter-disciplinary teamwork in different settings, within an inclusive society – ‘Specialist teaching, Inclusive learning’ Young people should be encouraged to have high aspirations What we do Advocate and represent Influence national policy Promote quality standards Work in partnership Share best practice Run networks, forums, training Deliver projects (We work with ALL organisations with specialist provision for high needs students) Our Vision is that all young people with learning difficulties or disabilities can access quality education and training which supports their aspirations for skills, work and life. What we do ……… What we believe, which I am assuming is similar to your own organisation’s value statements. You will of course be receiving a copy of all the slides.

Vision “that all young people with learning difficulties or disabilities can access quality education and training, which meets their individual needs and supports their aspirations for skills, work and life.” Options Outstanding Opportunity Outcomes Breaking down the vision into four words

Technology changes lives

What is the most exciting thing you have seen related to technology? (Could be in or out of college Could be AT or IT related) Your experience

The technology service TechAbility Students with learning difficulties and disabilities High Needs Students in all providers Specialist Colleges 190,000 Training and development: whole sector 25,000 Slide shows Natspec’s role – our membership services are for those with high needs students – specialist colleges at the core, but other providers with specialism in high needs too. Our CPD, projects and training – including Tech-Ability – is for all providers across the sector, working in partnership with others. Membership and representation: Natspec members 3,000

Context Reduction in AT provision with recent cuts End of DART project and TechDis Rise in numbers of high needs students in GFE Pockets of excellence and specialism that is “hidden” Unmet demand?

The TechAbility service: What is it? A Natspec Jisc partnership project A service for organisations across the FE sector Showcasing best practice - events and workshops Development of on line & published resources Assistive technology solutions for student with SEND AT and IT advice and guidance, from strategic to operational Bespoke solutions for your college – individual service

Discussion Consider: 1) IT infrastructure 2) Assistive Technology For each: What are the issues and challenges you face? Any more examples of good practice and innovation?

March - July Roadshows and events during March Assessment of demand and taking requests for support – contact TechAbility@Natspec.org.uk Resource bank of existing material Development of new material Showcasing innovative work at Digifest Really effective fundamental stuff: e.g. someone who is dependent on a communication aid so gets a switch in the right place. Environmental controls. Infrared technology Or someone who is dependent on a power wheelchair controlling it with a switch behind th eelbow, using it appropriately for them Text to speech software. Education – use of Apps. Pictello – simple sequencing app. E.g. independent travel training, familiatising them with a journey, take picture of landmarks, e.g. Past boots, get off. Put text over the top of the picture. Sequencing an independence activity such as washing. Book creator APP – enables students to manage portfolios, evidence for qualifications or progress. E-portfolios. Really fany stuff – Natinoal Star – 3 D printing and tactile maps. Derwen – label printer. The students can use the software to design the labels; they come out looking great. Also they have the devie that enables the students to stick the labels on straight. . Completely accessible. Show you tube videos.

Apps to support learning / RARPA Strip Designer Aurasma Pinterest Pictello/Our Story Dragon Animate It Book Creator

Examples… Orchard Hill: Contour National Star: Star Print Derwen: Labelling Percy Hedley: Media Suite Beaumont: Augmented Reality QAC: Braille AT without “technology” Barnsley: communication aids TalkitSD

A video assessment tool for measuring progress for learners with PMLD A task based learning system that combines systematic instruction with location based technology. For people with learning difficulties and their work coaches in work environments in colleges and businesses. www.emberlearning.com Contact: David Finch Director dfinch@nationalstar.org Tel : 01242527631 Memo – is a smartphone application that reduces anxiety for users with memory difficulties. Using calendar prompts, online checklist alerts, profile distribution and GPS tracking. A one handed wheelchair lap belt designed specifically for wheelchair users who transfer but only have the use of one hand. A web based dashboard for storing accessibility profiles and changing settings on any computer network. A video assessment tool for measuring progress for learners with PMLD