Designing and Implementing Curriculum for Students With Special Needs
A Case Study of a Thinking Curriculum
Abstract
Over the years, ICT has emerged as a platform that is seen to enhance the knowledge and skills of students in mainstream learning environments. A growing number of schools however, now provide a separate alternative enrolment for students with special needs. Although there are valid opinions on what is the best method of educating these students (integration vs. segregation) it has been noted by many researchers that technology can play a major role in the learning process. In this paper, an e-learning paradigm is applied in a holistic manner to a special learning community with the aim of determining an appropriate e-learning model and platform to support curriculum design. The paper focuses on a pilot project at a suburban school for students with special needs. The aims of the project are to observe the level of immersion and engagement and its impact on curriculum outcomes of the group. This research project further investigates the transition issues and approaches for this group and the links and relationships beyond the normal school environment. The project has been funded by the School of Information Systems and the School Community.
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