Local Member Andrew Powell MP has announced that five local schools in Glass House had received tablet computers (e-tablets) as part of the Newman Government’s $3.5 million eLearning for Special Needs Students’ initiative. Successful schools in Glass House include; Conondale State School, Maleny State School, Montville State School, Chevallum State School and Woodford State School.
Mr Powell said the Newman Government had provided more than 7,000 e-tablets for Queensland state schools with special education programs.
“This election commitment is opening up a whole range of new learning possibilities for students with a disability,” Mr Powell said.
“We delivered up to 20 iPads and e-tablets to more than 40 state special schools across Queensland, and up to 10 devices to other state schools offering special education programs, for the start of this term.
“It is exciting to see that students are already using this technology enthusiastically, and how teachers are putting the devices to good use in the classroom to cater for students’ diverse learning needs.”
Mr Powell said the assistive features of e-tablets had enormous potential for students with a disability, helping them to communicate and learn.
“Children who are unable to speak can type words and have the e-tablets verbalise their thoughts,” Mr Powell said.
“Other students use eye movement to operate the technology, making communication and learning much easier for those who have severely restricted physical mobility.
“Students have greater independence, more input into their learning, and are initiating and expressing their thoughts through this technology.”
Mr Powell said the eLearning for Special Needs Students’ initiative followed a successful trial.
“Feedback from teachers and parents was that this technology provided significant benefits for students, including improved student engagement,” Mr Powell said.
“Other trials interstate and overseas have also demonstrated how special needs students have achieved better outcomes at school through the use of e-tablet technology.”