In Tanzania, the lack of assistive technology and learning materials for learners with disabilities is often a major barrier to access and inclusion. Assistive technology plays an increasingly vital role in how education can be delivered and improved, especially in the area of special needs education.
This challenge can be addressed by applying the Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles, the use of Visual, Aural, Reading/Writing, and Kinesthetic (VARK) sensory modalities exercises, and content adaptation, to help teachers achieve powerful results in teaching and learning.
Awena Hasan Seif, a Swahili and English teacher at Kisiwandui Primary School in Zanzibar, Tanzania is using the skills she learned at the Teacher Professional Development (TPD) training on UDL, a workshop held in March 2021 by eKitabu who is a subcontractor to Research Triangle Institute (RTI), and funded by USAID.
“The TPD training was an eye-opener for me. I learned the best and most simple methods of acquiring and teaching in the classroom. I am able to understand children's behavior and solve their cases. I also learned how to teach students with different learning and understanding abilities.” Said Awena.
Awena is inspired to give quality education to pupils to meet their objectives in life and for the development of her country. She holds a Diploma in Early Childhood Development and Education from the University of Zanzibar. She is also a beneficiary of the CPD training which was held in March 2021 in Zanzibar and the Mainland.
“CPD training has really simplified teaching and learning in my school. It’s now easy to use digital devices such as; computers, Orbit Reader 20, and an Embosser in teaching my learners. My learners and I enjoy the lessons together.” Said Awena.
The training design was a mixed approach of facilitator-led instruction and hands-on activities. The trainees interacted with the content and devices: Orbit Reader 20, Tablets, and Laptops as the instructor was training. The sessions were interactive with teachers/educators and instructors asking and answering questions, which allowed for real-time feedback from the teachers/educators during the training. The pre-and post-training surveys also captured trainees’ levels of satisfaction with the training.
“Personally, the CPD training has helped me know how to use different devices such as an Orbit reader. I have gained expertise and experience and am able to teach others how to use various devices in teaching and learning. Said Awena
Through this CPD training, eKitabu brought awareness of UDL principles and how to approach inclusive education utilizing accessible digital content and low-cost assistive devices. Learn more about eKitabu and RTI.