Technology to support sensory learning
Discover which technology resources deserve their place within your sensory toolbox
with Carol Allen and Richard Hirstwood
27 January 2023: 9am – 12 noon
Technology use constantly evolves in schools, and teachers and LSAs have many opportunities to use fantastic technology to inspire and engage our learners. First, we examine the use of technology to support activities at cause and effect level. Following this, we then explore technology that offers deeper engagement in learning by purposefully using projection and sound.
We review the current technology resources and their place within our toolbox, particularly their uses in special education. Then, with so many options, how do we make the right choices? What strategic structures need to be in place to facilitate seamless integration into our classroom workflow?
Throughout the morning, we share various resources, ideas and strategies. A mixture of theory and practice ensures that you leave with a range of ideas and activities and a greater understanding of why and how to use technology as a critical resource.
9 am Admission and virtual tea/coffee to start!
9.10 am Warm Up Session!
9.15 am Session 1: The Role of Technology in Sensory Learning
Technology use constantly evolves in schools, and teachers and LSA’s have many opportunities to use fantastic technology to inspire and engage our learners.
In this session, delegates will explore:
technology resources currently available and their place within our educational toolbox
making the right choice of technology for a sensory learner
strategic structures needed to facilitate seamless integration of technology into our classroom workflow
9.25 am Session 2: Technology to support cause and effect.
The understanding that one’s actions can make something happen is the first stage of independent use of technology. We introduce practical ideas and resources for this essential first cognitive step.
In this session, delegates will explore:
a carefully curated range of early cause-and-effect technology resources, including touchscreen activities; switching toys and sensory environmental control
why they are essential for our learners
the critical aspects of personalisation; consolidation and generalisation to move the skills gained beyond the original activity and resource
10.00 am Session 3: Projection – how can projection enhance engagement?
This session will look at fixed and flexible projection. So often we use fixed whiteboards to project imagery. However, portable projection solutions can be much more engaging and accessible.
In this session, delegates will explore:
how to offer greater flexibility, control and a broader range of sensory experiences using mobile projection
appropriate equipment and supporting resources
10.45 am COFFEE AND MINI ONLINE LEARNING TASK
11.00 am Session 4: Recording Sensory Sound and video
This session will examine how we record video and sound for fun, learning and assessment.
In this session, delegates will explore:
a strategy to decide what, when and how to record sound or video
using recorded sound and video effectively in early sensory activities
using iPads, macs and windows machines with early sensory learners
a selection of shared sound/video resources contextualised in teaching and learning activities
11.40 am Q & A
12 noon Plenary, thank you and goodbye!
This course will be appropriate for classroom practitioners from special schools and colleges, mainstream settings with specialist SEN provision and early years settings, and working with pupils with severe/complex learning needs and autism, or both.
Richard Hirstwood is passionate about enabling educators/practitioners to maximise the impact of delivering sensory learning opportunities, in a sensory room or other learning environments, with the available resources. His extensive experience is based on practical knowledge, giving him insight into what works and what doesn’t in multi sensory practice. Regular sessions with children and adults with autism and all additional needs in a variety of multi sensory and classroom settings enable him to maintain this excellent practice.
Carol Allen is an education advisor for ICT and Inclusion, currently offering specialised support to Local Authorities, schools, parents and carers and a wide range of educators worldwide. She has taught since 1980 in both mainstream schools – primary and high, and schools for students with severe, profound and multiple learning difficulties. As an English specialist, she recognises that communication lies at the heart of all effective teaching. Accordingly, most of her work has centred on technology’s creative and engaging use to support communication in its broadest sense.
The following resources will be available in your account for one week after the course date: a digital recording of this event, any resources shared/signposted during the session and a transcript of Zoom chat.
Each place costs £75 plus VAT
You can choose to pay by credit card for this booking. You can also request an invoice by confirming your booking by entering a Purchase Order Number on the booking form.
To make a group booking, please select the number of places you wish to book using the drop-down menu in the ‘Book event’ section. Select ‘next.’ Complete the requested fields and the name and email addresses of those wishing to attend. Request an invoice or pay by card. Click ‘submit.’
NEW AND UPDATED FOR 2023!
