Microsoft’s Accessibility Features
Windows 10 Accessibility Features
Windows 11 Accessibility Features
Apple Support – Accessibility Features on Mac
Google Chromebook Accessibility Features
CAST – Universal Design for Learning (UDL)
EdSurge – The Edtech That’s Transforming Special Education
Inclusive Learning Technologies: What Educators Need to Know
EdTech Magazine – How Adaptive Learning Technology Boosts Student Learning
ADD – Attention Deficit Disorder
Attention deficit disorder is a neurological disorder which causes a range of behavioural problems, such as following instructions, completing tasks, social interactions and focusing on schoolwork.
ADHD – Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
ALN – Additional Learning Needs
Additional educational needs refers to various groups of children and young people who for a variety of reasons may face additional barriers to education and learning. This makes it more difficult for them to achieve their full potential. This is different to children with Special Educational Needs.
AS – Asperges
Asperger’s syndrome (AS) is one of a group of neurological disorders known as autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). AS is considered to be on the mild end of the spectrum.
ASD – Autism Spectrum Disorder
Autistic spectrum disorder is a special educational need which impacts social communication, the flexibility of thought and social interaction. It’s also increasingly referred to as autistic spectrum condition (ASC).
BEST – Behaviour and Educational Support Team
CAMHS – Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service
This is a specialist part of the NHS which provides assessment and treatment when children and young people have emotional, mental health or behavioural difficulties
CF – Cystic Fibrosis
Cystic fibrosis is an inherited condition that causes sticky mucus to build up in the lungs and digestive system. This causes lung infections and problems with digesting food.
CP – Cerebral Palsy
Cerebral palsy is the name for a group of lifelong conditions that affect movement and co-ordination. It’s caused by a problem with the brain that develops before, during or soon after birth.
DD – Disability Discrimination
(Previously DD) – Developmental Delay
Developmental delay is when your child lags behind their peers in one or more areas of emotional, mental, or physical growth.
Dyslexia
A learning disability which affects skills involved in reading, spelling and writing. Children with this condition will have normal intelligence and normal vision.
Dyspraxia
Dyspraxia, also known as developmental co-ordination disorder (DCD), is a common disorder that affects movement and co-ordination. Dyspraxia does not affect your intelligence. It can affect your co-ordination skills – such as tasks requiring balance, playing sports or learning to drive a car. Dyspraxia can also affect your fine motor skills, such as writing or using small objects
ESL – English as a Second Language
MLD – Moderate Learning Difficulties
Moderate learning difficulties are challenges when accessing education and a form of special educational needs.
MSI – Multi-Sensory Impairment
Children and young people who have a multi-sensory impairment have both vision and hearing loss which impacts all areas of learning. Children and young people can also need extra support to learn to communicate and develop socially.
OCD – Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
OCD is a disorder which causes obsessive thoughts with associated behavioural difficulties. This can result in special educational needs which require additional support.
OT – Occupational Therapy / Occupational Therapist
PECS – Picture Exchange Communication System
PECS is a method of communication using pictures. It’s helpful for children with communication-based special educational needs and mainly used to support children with autism.
PMLD – Profound and Multiple Learning Disability
PMLD is a collection of disabilities which results in complex special educational needs. Children with PMLD will need added support in the form of a Statement of Special Educational Needs or an EHC plan.
SEN – Special Educational Needs
Special educational needs is a legal term with a specific definition. If a child or young person is struggling in school or college and requires additional support, they are likely to have special educational needs.
SEND – Special Educational Needs and Disabilities
A child or young person has special educational needs and disabilities if they’re suffering from learning difficulties and/or a disability which means they need special health and education support.
SLD – Severe Learning Difficulties
Children and young people with severe learning difficulties are likely to find it difficult to understand, learn and remember new skills. Their intellectual and cognitive impairment, combined with possible sensory, physical, emotional and social difficulties, means it can be challenging for them to follow the curriculum without substantial support.