This section contains general advice for teachers in their use of information and communication technology (ICT).

1. The purpose

It is easy to get confused and overwhelmed by computers and the terminology associated with them, and thereby forget the real purpose for buying ICT. Give some thought to why you want to use ICT in your teaching as this will help you think clearly about the hardware and software you need to fulfil this purpose and to communicate this clearly to those who are more technological in their approach.

2. A good computer

While ideally one should choose the software you wish to use and then choose the computer to run this software, in reality, a good, up-to-date multimedia computer with a CD Rom or DVD drive is often the starting point for teachers supporting students with special needs. For more information on a good basic computer, talk to the school ICT coordinating teacher. The NCTE website also has general information and support related to technology.  Ultimately, it is usually advisable to buy the highest specification computer you can afford for future proofing (making sure that your computer will be able to run software programs which have yet to be developed).

3. The next step: what hardware and software is available for special needs?

The next step will be to build up information on special software and additions to, or modifications of, the basic computer. For this, you need to build a broad awareness of the types of software and computer additions (peripherals). You can do this in a number of ways:

(a) Suppliers

Contact suppliers and/or publishers for their catalogues of software and computer peripherals (e.g., rollerballs, touchscreens, special keyboards). Some suppliers and publishers specialise in equipment and software for students with special needs.  Their catalogues provide a good idea of the range of resources available, from which one can start to identify the most suitable items.

(b) NCTE website

Check out the following sections of our website:

• Assistive Technology and Software Categories
• The Scoilnet website also has a range of curriculum resources, some of which include applications of technology in the classroom.

4. Talk to others before you choose

Before making any decision, contact other teachers, as they may have faced similar questions and be able to give some good advice and practical information:

(a) Support Groups

There may be a local teacher support group in the area, for instance (and if not, why not start one?). Special needs support groups are organised via the local education centres. If you are interested in starting or joining a support group, please contact your local education centre.

(b) Pilot Projects

Investigate the pilot projects around the country that are looking at the use of ICT with special needs students.

(c) Others

Special schools have built up expertise in educating children with disabilities and may be able to offer advice and support. If there is no special school dealing with the kinds of disabilities about which you want to enquire, you may instead be able to locate a special class teacher with expertise in this area.

5. Self-help

Self-help is the most reliable form of help in special needs, as the challenges one encounters are often so specific to a given situation and an individual student.  Even though others may have more expertise in technology, they can only offer advice and suggestions, or can work with the teacher to help formulate an appropriate response.

6. Buying software and hardware peripherals 

A computer is of no use without some software, so always make room in your budget for something. If in doubt, a talking word-processing program (there are many varieties) is a good standard with which to start. If you are unfamiliar with different types of software, it may be wise to buy a little at a time in order to explore its use and find out what you need as you go along. Ultimately, aim to acquire a core library of software with which you can become familiar and which caters for students with different types of special needs. 

7. Getting a good deal

Look for a beneficial sales agreement, a good warranty, good customer service and support such as demonstration disks, trial periods or guaranteed sale or return within a certain period. Many suppliers/publishers offer a trial period where you can return the software if it does not meet your requirements

8. People to contact

Don't give up before you talk to the NCTE special needs staff who may be able to help or refer you to someone who can. 

• The NCTE staff.  Contact the NCTE staff via the NCTE central office (01-7008200).
• The school inspector or local psychologist may be able to offer advice or referral, or identify some teachers who would be willing to share their experiences with other teachers.
• Non-profit service providers may offer an advisory service and/or assessment services in special needs technology, often related to a specific disability.
  
  • Many are members of one of two umbrella bodies, the Disability Federation of Ireland (www.disability-federation.ie) and the Federation of Voluntary Bodies (www.fedvol.ie).
  • The Central Remedial Clinic (Client Technical Services unit) in particular is well known for its expertise and services in assistive technology for students with special needs, especially those with physical disabilities (www.crc.ie).
  • Enable Ireland's National High Tech AT Training Service (www.enableireland.ie) focuses on the development of accessible AT training modules and courses for all of Enable Ireland's stakeholders as well as for the wider potential AT community. For further information contact Siobhan Long at Enable Ireland, Dublin. Ph: 01-4992357 or by e-mail: slong@enableireland.ie.
• There may be some private service providers offering a professional service in technology needs assessment, choice and application in the area. These include educational psychologists in private practice.