How the project works
History and progress
What..
The Symbols Inclusion Project (SIP) is a collaboration between Widgit Software and Warwickshire DISCS (Disability, Inclusion, Sensory and Communication Support Service) on the use of symbols to support inclusion and curriculum access.
Why..
To create genuinely inclusive learning environments for all children.
Backed by Government strategy in 1997 Green Paper
'Excellence for all Children' - defining principle of inclusion.
How..
- Started with one boy - A Warwickshire school had pupil who needed symbols to support learning and decided to consider ways symbols could become part of the normal learning environment. Could they help other pupils struggling with early literacy?
- Pilot Phase - liaison between Widgit staff and DISCS staff based at a mainstream Infant School with a specialist provision for pupils with Specific Language Disorders.
- Development Phase - building on impact found in pilot phase.
Producing differentiated material relating to National Curriculum objectives for KS1 and lower KS2 in core subjects.
SIP CD 1 was produced.
Training for teachers and teaching assistants.
Continued development of resources across KS1 and KS2.
CD 2 completed.
Impact..
Linking into schools duty to increase accessibility of sites.
Access required for all students with a disability not just relating to the physical environment. All aspects of teaching and learning should be accessible - including experiences and understanding.
One strategy for supporting accessibility is to use materials differentiated with symbols.
Warwickshire was already providing entitlement training for Primary school staff on Communication Friendly Environments. Symbols one tool that can be used.
This linked to Warwickshire's SEN self-evaluation Framework which has a section on accessibility of the learning environment.
A truly accessible learning environment will be Communication Friendly
The project materials enable more pupils to access the teaching and learning environment through symbol support. Symbols provide a visual prompt which aids understanding of vocabulary and helps develop an understanding of concepts.
Warwickshire buy County Licence for symbol program Communicate: In Print for all educational establishments.
Next...
- Collecting evidence of impact of materials on pupils' learning.
- Symbol use in Secondary Schools.
- Continuing development of resource materials.
- Training for school staff across Warwickshire.