Empowering Learning:
How ipads and accessibility features support pupils with SEND in the classroom
Technology is increasingly transforming the landscape of education, and Apple’s iPads stand out for their robust accessibility features. These tools help bridge the gap in learning equality by enabling pupils with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) to engage in meaningful and accessible learning experiences. By empowering educators and students alike, accessibility features are becoming a cornerstone of modern classrooms.
Why Schools Should Embrace Accessibility for SEND Pupils
Incorporating accessibility tools into teaching practices is no longer just a bonus; it is essential for fostering an inclusive learning environment. For pupils with SEND, accessibility features can significantly enhance their ability to engage with the curriculum, reducing barriers that might otherwise hinder their academic progress. By enabling personalised and equitable access to learning, these tools ensure that no pupil is left behind. This personalisation promotes autonomy and creates opportunities for students to succeed on their own terms.
The impact of accessibility features extends beyond academic performance. By fostering independence and enabling participation in classroom activities, these tools support pupils’ self-esteem and mental health. For instance, the ability to use tools like Speak Screen or VoiceOver can empower students with reading difficulties or visual impairments, giving them the confidence to engage with peers and teachers. This sense of capability and inclusion contributes to a positive school experience, promoting wellbeing and resilience. Reducing frustrations caused by inaccessible materials can also have a ripple effect on emotional regulation and engagement.
Experts in education emphasize the importance of accessibility in cultivating long-term skills. According to research by the National Center on Universal Design for Learning, accessibility tools help all learners by creating a more engaging and supportive educational environment. These resources not only benefit pupils with SEND but also enhance teaching strategies for all students, enabling a universal approach to learning. By leveraging these tools, schools create inclusive environments where diversity is seen as an asset rather than a challenge.
Let’s explore five key features available on iPads and how they can support pupils with SEND effectively.
1. VoiceOver
VoiceOver is a gesture-based screen reader that enables visually impaired students to navigate the iPad effectively. It provides auditory descriptions of everything happening on-screen, from text and buttons to images.
How It Can Be Used:
- Students can touch the screen, and VoiceOver will read aloud what they’re interacting with.
- Paired with Braille displays, this feature allows for seamless integration of tactile learning.
- Teachers can preconfigure learning apps to ensure compatibility with VoiceOver for better navigation.
Example in Lessons:
In an English lesson, a visually impaired pupil can independently read eBooks using VoiceOver. By navigating through chapters and reading out loud, they can access the same materials as their peers, fostering inclusion and independence. This feature can also be combined with annotation tools, allowing the pupil to mark important sections using auditory feedback.
Setup Resources:
2. Guided Access
Guided Access helps students with attention or sensory challenges by limiting the device to a single app and controlling which features are accessible.
How It Can Be Used:
- Teachers can lock the iPad to a specific learning app or activity, preventing distractions.
- Adjustable time limits and focus modes ensure students stay on task without feeling overwhelmed.
- Settings can also be used to disable touch in certain screen areas, which can be helpful during interactive lessons.
Example in Lessons:
During math practice, Guided Access can lock the student’s iPad to a specific arithmetic app. This prevents them from accidentally exiting the activity or getting distracted by other applications. In an exam setting, it ensures that students focus solely on the test app, reducing anxiety caused by the fear of accidental navigation.
Setup Resources:
3. Speak Selection and Speak Screen
Speak Selection and Speak Screen allow the iPad to read selected text or entire screen content aloud, supporting pupils with dyslexia or other reading challenges.
How It Can Be Used:
- Students can select specific words, paragraphs, or articles for the iPad to read aloud.
- Adjustable speaking rates and voices personalize the experience.
- Coupled with text-highlighting tools, this feature reinforces word recognition and comprehension.
Example in Lessons:
In a history lesson, a pupil struggling with text decoding can use Speak Screen to listen to a chapter about ancient civilizations while following along with the text visually. This dual input reinforces understanding and engagement. Similarly, during group projects, pupils can contribute by listening to instructions and collaborating without relying solely on their reading skills.
Setup Resources:
4. Magnifier
The Magnifier turns the iPad into a digital magnifying glass, enhancing visibility for pupils with low vision.
How It Can Be Used:
- Students can zoom in on physical textbooks, whiteboard content, or tiny objects during science experiments.
- Filters and brightness controls make it easier to adapt to varying lighting conditions.
- Teachers can integrate the Magnifier into live demonstrations, ensuring all pupils can follow along in real time.
Example in Lessons:
In an art class, a pupil can use the Magnifier to closely examine the fine details of a painting or their own artwork, enabling full participation. During a biology lab, it can assist in observing minute details of specimens like leaves or insects, ensuring the pupil experiences the lesson fully.
Setup Resources:
5. Switch Control
Switch Control enables pupils with motor challenges to interact with the iPad using adaptive switches, a joystick, or even their head movements.
How It Can Be Used:
- Customise scanning methods to navigate through apps, text, or menus.
- Integrate external adaptive devices for a tailored experience.
- Pair with automation tools to simplify repetitive actions for increased efficiency.
Example in Lessons:
In a coding lesson, a pupil with limited mobility can use Switch Control to navigate a block-based coding app, such as Swift Playgrounds, enabling participation in collaborative projects. During presentations, they can control slide transitions with minimal physical effort, fostering inclusion in classroom activities.
Setup Resources:
Conclusion
By utilising these powerful features, teachers can create a more inclusive learning environment that enables pupils with SEND to thrive alongside their peers. Whether it’s enhancing focus, providing alternative inputs, or offering auditory feedback, iPads offer versatile tools to cater to diverse learning needs. The long-term benefits of integrating these features include better academic outcomes, improved mental health, and an inclusive culture that values every student’s potential.
To unlock the full potential of these features in your classroom, explore the links provided for step-by-step guidance. By investing time in accessibility settings, you’ll not only support individual learning needs but also champion equality in education.
Together, we can bridge the gap in learning opportunities and empower every pupil to achieve their full potential.
Apple Resources To Support With Accessibility Features
Want to share your insights?
I am looking for a range of case studies and real-life insights on how technology is being used in SEND education covering both highly bespoke and off the shelf technology. I am also looking to have a range of discussions with SEND specialists around barriers to learning, barriers to staff upskilling and insights into how they have used technology to unlock key experiences for their learners.
If this is something that you would be willing to support with or are able to share key case studies/insights from your work, please email research@jordansmithson.com
