Inclusion: the whos, the whys, the when and the hows

Today's world is a literate world, one in which communication and understanding is the essence to daily life and yet in today's world many students struggle with this aspect of their everyday life. The use of Assistive Technology and ICT to teach and learn language and literacy skills, for students with additional educational needs and learning difficulties is intrinsic to this belief.

For these students ICT and Assistive Technology

• is highly motivating
• assists in literacy and language development
• can help break down barriers that traditionally prevent participation and access to the curriculum - thereby creating independence
• allows for greater control over own life and greater participation in life at home, school and the community
• provides opportunities that are available to people who do not have disabilities

Assistive technology is a basic tool in the education of any child who may experience a disability or learning difficulty (requiring teaching and learning adjustments) be it a low technology item or a highly sophisticated system. Failure to provide such adjustments would be considered under Section 22 of the DDA.

This paper will consider the whys of inclusion, the benefits to all and the necessity of adequate resources, especially Assistive Technology to support inclusivity. Children who learn together learn to live together.

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