“Digital Technology for Children With Special Needs”

Vijay Garg

In an era where technology is reshaping the way we live and learn, the National Education Policy (NEP-2020) paves the way for an education revolution. NEP 2020 envisions a future where education is not just accessible to all, but truly inclusive, regardless of abilities or disabilities. It recognizes the pivotal role of Digital Technology as a catalyst for promoting inclusivity in education. It emphasizes the importance of leveraging digital technology to provide equitable access to high-quality education for every child. Additionally, NEP 2020 highlights the critical role of teacher training in effectively harnessing digital technology for educational purposes. New technologies can enable the exploration of new learning modalities that disrupt the traditional hierarchies of educational systems and develop genuine alternatives to rigid, passive learning approaches for children with special needs (CwSN) or Divyang. Extensive use of technology in teaching and learning, removing language barriers, increasing access for Divyang students, and educational planning and management is one of the fundamental principles of NEP 2020 and it also initiates for development a rich variety of educational softwares, made available for students and teachers at all levels, will be accessible to a wide range of Divyang students in all major Indian languages. ICT is recognized as a key enabler of inclusive education, and the NEP 2020 emphasizes the importance of using ICT to provide access to quality education for all children.

 

Incorporating digital technology into the education of CWSN is not merely an option but a necessity in the modern education landscape. NEP 2020's focus on inclusivity and equity aligns perfectly with the potential of technology to empower children with special needs. It not only promises to bridge the educational disparities but also offers tailor-made support to cater to their unique requirements. It represents a significant step forward in building a more equitable and accessible education system for all. Digital technology can be a powerful tool for supporting children with special needs in their development and it can help them to develop their communication, social, and cognitive skills. It has the potential to revolutionize education for children with special needs. Students with disabilities exhibit a diverse range of abilities and needs, thus requiring a variety of instructional and assessment methods and strategies.By equipping educators with the skills and knowledge needed to effectively integrate digital tools, we can create a more equitable and inclusive educational system where every child, regardless of their abilities, has the opportunity to thrive. To provide CWSN with access to quality education, support their learning, and create a more inclusive learning environment, teachers need to be skilled in identifying the ICT needs of CWSN, selecting and using appropriate ICT tools and resources, adapting and developing educational materials using digital technology, integrating it into the classroom curriculum, and assessing and evaluating learning using digital technology.