ICT for students with intellectual disabilities: a case study

Abstract

The objective of the research was to propose a training program aimed at tutor teachers on the use of ICT in the Beatriz Jarrín Specialized Educational Unit of the El Sagrario Parish, Ibarra - Ecuador. It is a study with a qualitative approach, descriptive and field type. Interviews were applied to the students to know the scope of their technological skills and to the academic tutor to evaluate what digital tools are used in the didactic strategies. The results revealed the existence of various technological barriers that limit the use of ICT in pedagogical practices. However, students have basic notions about the use of mobile devices and computers, which allows the generation of digital skills based on their degree of cognition. It was observed that the knowledge of teachers about digital educational tools is scarce, despite recognizing their importance and benefits. The Person-Centered Plan was analyzed based on technological skills, compliance with curricular content and evaluation of the achievements achieved by the student, it was found that the use of ICT is not promoted in the Plan, which limits adaptation. of students with disabilities to the digital age. With the purpose of improving the teaching-learning processes in specialized education, a proposal was designed that seeks to promote the use of ICT through a didactic guide. This guide provides an outline of tools adapted to the communication, logical-mathematical and social skills of students with intellectual disabilities. It was concluded that the limitations in the use of ICT in specialized education due to technological barriers and lack of knowledge on the part of teachers are evident. In addition, the potential of ICTs to improve the learning of students with intellectual disabilities is highlighted.