When it comes to distance learning for special education, a lot of dynamics change and become very challenging. The term “ Special Education” comprises tailored education for different disabilities, age groups, interests and abilities.

Specialized distance learning can be a huge challenge when most students require one-on-one guidance because of dependency and attention deficits. Here are some pointers that can help to ease these challenges:

• Parental involvement is imperative here. Assessment of the home environment, availability of electronic devices and uninterrupted wi-fi, availability of space for motor and sensory activities must be taken into account.
• Evaluating the goals that are achievable in the given environment and breaking up the learning process into manageable benchmarks.
• Teachers must impart continuous guidance to parents through video conferencing to keep things moving at a smooth pace.
• Creating classroom groups on social media can bring all the parents and teachers under one platform where there is mutual benefit for all.
• Special distance learning also calls for extensive flexibility on the part of the parents and teachers to foster an environment that resembles a normal school day.
• A list of daily activities can be broken down, giving the students plenty of breaks. They should also be given enough time to work on projects.

Dyslexia is a highly misunderstood word. It is often confused and misinterpreted as autism and other learning disabilities. Dyslexic students are at a major disadvantage in a normal class environment. The international Dyslexia Organization characterizes Dyslexia as having difficulties with accurate recognition, decoding and poor spelling ability.

How can Dyslexic students be helped in a regular classroom?

• Reading deficits must be identified and analyzed as early as kindergarten. Linguistics can aid children to improve their reading levels. Teachers must be extremely patient and implement structured and multisensory ways to help dyslexic students.
• Teachers can motivate students by identifying their other talents. Students must be encouraged to pursue what makes them feel confident and self-dependent. The range of interest may vary from mathematics to sports or art.
• Peer-acceptance is a vital aspect to thrive in a school environment. Teachers must be wary of bullying and rejection that can snuff out the interest of going to school.
• Dyslexic students must be handled with more sensitivity. Removing time limits for exams and taking away marks for spelling mistakes can be overlooked.
• The success or failure of a Dyslexic student depends entirely on the school and the environment. Creating awareness for teachers and others who handle dyslexic students is absolutely imperative.