Thursday 6 November 2014

Set curriculum content v's individual pupil need

For pupils with complex needs their is always a trade off occuring between the set curriculum that has to be covered ( by law) and the specific needs of the complex needs pupil. I am constantly seeing that in my work as an independent consultant.

In mainstream settings the size of class, the pace of the lesson and the amount that is actually achieved are all factors to be considered. Size does matter if using IT and in particular mobile technologies such as iPads. These require a set of rules that might apply when teaching whole group situations. I am working on this and so it is a work in progress. So my main headings at this stage are:-


  • Quick wins - apps that are so easy to use and maybe practise a skill
  • Open content - apps that encourage you to make your own content
  • Sharing apps - apps that share your work with others or wider or in the cloud 
  • Internetless apps - apps that don't depend on wifi connectivity and filtering
I am sure there are more ways to deliver this in teaching and learning. Preparation is key as is logging on to online services. I do use google sign ins rather than email logins because it is quicker. I find storing online to be very useful for making a session work.

In terms of meeting the curriculum needs the above ways of using apps to provide a quick win to be a lead in then pursue a lengthy , more open content app ending up with an app that shares information to the cloud. Showing and telling becomes really useful as long as it doesn't take too long.

Bear in mind situations where wifi is poor or dodgy. Check that your apps don't depend on wifi or access to the apps own website. This might make your session a little frustrating as would long buffering cycles!

Any pearls of wisdom do share them. I'd be pleased to have your comments

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