Country Studied: Romania
Type of learning difficulty the Case Study is supporting:
- Learning Difficulties (dyslexia, dysorthographia, dyscalculia).
Aims and objectives of Case Study
The goal of this study is to determine the most appropriate methods and techniques used for Teaching English to children with special educational needs and to determine determine whether they should take the courses in foreign languages in mainstream education or with a supporting teacher. The study also aims to highlight the best methods and techniques which can be used with these children in their attempt to learn a new language, in this case English.
The study was conducted on 10 English teachers, 90 parents, 90 regular children and 10 children with SEN from the 6th grade.
Short description of Case Study
The study has been conducted in “Adam mMuller Guttenbrunn” High School of Arad, with the 6th grade between May 1 and 15, 2014.
The questionnaire has been applied to understand the teachers`, parents` and students` perception of children with SEN. After the results have been analyzed, a pre-test has been given to the sample students (25, 20 regular students and 5 students with SEN). Then the experimental stage has taken place. An English teacher has worked with the experimental group and applied methods for teaching English to children with SEN. The experimental test has revealed unexpected results.whether they should take the courses in foreign languages in mainstream education or with a supporting teacher.
Research questions
A questionnaire has been applied to the teachers containing the following questions:
- Do you find inclusive education useful for children with SEN? Give reasons to support your decision.
- Should teachers of English teach children with SEN without any prior training?
- Do you consider that children with SEN slow down the teaching pace? Give suggestions to change this situation.
Another questionnaire has been applied to parents of regular children.
- Do you think that inclusive education is beneficial for mainstream education?
- Do you think that your child is affected by the presence of a child with SEN?
- Would you approve your child`s friendship and collaboration to a child with SEN?
The questionnaire applied to children with SEN contains the following questions:
- Do you like learning with children who are better at learning than you?
- Do you find English interesting? Would you like to learn it?
- Would you prefer learning in a smaller group than with the whole class?
The pre-test was applied on the 2nd of May 2014 and it consisted of four subjects: one grammar subject, one vocabulary subject, a reading task and a composition. After the pre-test had been assessed, the experimental group took English classes with a teacher who had taken a course in teaching English to inclusive classrooms. After two weeks, children retake the test, the results improved and children have a better, more positive attitude towards English.
3 Key learning Principles that were used in this Case Study to support learners with LD
- Promoting inclusive education.
- Adopt a methodology that is appropriate for children with SEN.
- Use attractive and appropriate learning material.
- Create interactive activities (emphasis must be placed on singing, playing, dancing, drawing. Movement activities are extremely beneficial for children with SEN).
Strategies used as part of Case Study
- Individualized Learning Plans.
- Guidance on creating and implementing individualized learning plans.
- Strategies for modifying or creating teaching materials to suit different abilities.
- Creating a positive and supportive classroom environment.
Results and impact
The experiment concluded that English can be taught to children with SEN without placing them in special schools. Learning a new language opens their minds, helps them create cognitive relations, organizes their mind and brings satisfaction. English teachers should adapt their lessons to children with SEN, should engage them in classroom activities and use interactive methods. These methods are beneficial for regular students too, because they are challenging, favour communication and interaction.
Why can this Case Study be useful for the project research?
This case study provides tangible evidence of the positive impact of drawing up an individual study plan for children with SEN. This is the reason why it is advisable for teachers to be familiar with the SEN child`s learning style. This is the first step that enables teachers to adjust their lesson to the child`s learning style, especially when working with children with SEN.
Transferability
This case study can be used in different settings and purpose:
- Teacher Professional Development: The case study can be used as a basis for teacher training programs. The findings and suggestions provided in the paper can help teachers to better support children with learning difficulties in foreign language learning.
- Special Education Programs: educational institution can use the findings of the study to adapt or design curricula that address the needs of students with learning difficulties.
- Educational community: the involvement of teachers, parents, students with/without special needs reflect the key role that society play in ensuring social inclusion.
Any additional learning that we can take from this Case Study, example:
Further investigation carried out in other countries to determine whether children with special educational needs (SEN) should learn foreign languages with teachers from mainstream education or with supporting teachers could play a key role in identifying the best methods and techniques which can be used children with special educational needs.
