Assistive Technology Pilot – Supporting Young People to Access Education
Gloucestershire Assistive Technology Lending Library Pilot shows positive impact for Children and Young People
Over the past year, 33 schools across Gloucestershire have taken part in the Assistive Technology Lending Library (ATLL) Pilot, giving children and young people the opportunity to trial a range of Assistive Technology (AT) before schools decide whether it is the right solution for their needs.
The pilot was designed to help schools explore technology that can support reading, writing, communication, organisation and independent learning. Technologies trialled included Reader Pens, Nessy, Clicker, Read&Write and Widgit.
Feedback from participating schools, families and children has shown encouraging results. Among the 36 pupil evaluations completed:
75% reported improved independence
53% reported improved engagement with learning
50% reported reduced barriers to accessing the curriculum
42% reported a positive impact on academic progress
The strongest benefits were reported for children and young people with Cognition and Learning, Communication and Interaction, and Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs, as well as some pupils with English as an Additional Language (EAL).
One of the most significant findings was that Assistive Technology not only helped pupils access learning, but also increased their confidence and willingness to learn independently.
"XX came in at lunchtime and asked to use the reader pen to read a book. This is something that school say would NEVER have happened before the reader pen
Participating schools also reported positive changes in writing and communication skills:
"It changed the view of one student on writing. Using the app meant he could write independently."
The pilot has also helped schools make informed decisions about future investment in Assistive Technology, with many going on to purchase or seek funding for technologies that proved successful for their pupils.
The findings reinforce the important role that Assistive Technology can play in supporting inclusion, reducing barriers to learning and helping children and young people participate more fully in school life.