Leveraging Technology in Education to Create an Inclusive Learning Experience

Leveraging Technology in Education to Create an Inclusive Learning Experience

CASE STUDY

Technology has rapidly transformed our world, and education is no exception. Digital transformation in education and its integration into classrooms is reshaping how students learn, and teachers teach. Technology empowers educators and students alike, from automating tasks to creating interactive learning environments. This case study explores how Central Auckland Specialist School (CASS) has embraced technology to build an inclusive and supportive learning environment for students with diverse learning needs.

What is CASS?

CASS is a dedicated school providing specialised education for students aged 5 to 21 with intellectual, physical, sensory, or behavioural disabilities. With 32 satellite classrooms across Central Auckland, CASS offers tailored and bespoke learning programs to meet the unique needs of each student.

They are funded by the Ministry of Education’s Ongoing Resourcing Scheme (ORS) for Special Education. CASS incorporates teachers, learning assistants, therapists, and specialists in art, music, dance, and Te Reo. CASS also runs a Specialist Teacher Outreach Service, which helps support ORS-funded students in being fully included within their mainstream schools.

The Technology Challenges Faced by the School

With its diverse student population, CASS faces unique challenges in delivering effective education. Each student brings specific learning needs, requiring a tailored approach with personalised learning. To address this, the school has strategically integrated technology into its curriculum.

A variety of technological tools, from portable screens to specialised communication devices, have been implemented to support students’ learning journeys. This diverse technology landscape ensures students can access the resources they need to reach their full potential.

Transforming Learning Through Technology

CASS has embraced technology in the classroom as a catalyst for innovation in education. As a primarily Office 365 school, CASS leverages SharePoint and Teams for efficient data management and collaboration. The deployment of devices like Windows desktops and Apple iPads across school sites ensures students and staff have access to technology and essential tools. The introduction of this technology for students with disabilities has given a new dimension to student learning and engagement.

CASS prioritises access to the latest technology, refreshing desktops and iPads every three years. This commitment, managed in partnership with New Era, ensures staff can focus on teaching rather than IT troubleshooting. Recent upgrades to network infrastructure at Smallfield Avenue and St Andrews Road locations have created a robust learning environment, supporting the delivery of tailored education.

CommBox: A Catalyst for Engagement

CommBox interactive screens have become a cornerstone of many CASS classrooms. These robust devices, equipped with various educational apps and platforms like Google Education and Microsoft Education, offer teachers versatile tools to create dynamic learning experiences.

Students are particularly drawn to the CommBox’s built-in whiteboard feature. The ability to draw and write directly on the screen has transformed how students interact with learning materials, fostering creativity and confidence. This intuitive technology has made learning more engaging and enjoyable for CASS students. You can schedule a consultation with one of our team to help integrate the CommBox’s into your classroom.

A Network of Support

With 32 satellite classes spread across 13 schools in Central Auckland, students can access online learning, through specialised CASS programs while attending their mainstream classes. This blended learning model creates a sense of belonging to the wider school community. New Era has been a vital partner in this journey, supporting CASS since the merger of Carlson School for Cerebral Palsy and Sunnydene Special Schools in 2018. As a pioneer in cloud-based solutions, CASS has embraced the Ministry of Education’s vision for reduced reliance on on-site hardware.

With staff moving between multiple locations daily, seamless access to data and systems is crucial. New Era’s expertise in ensuring efficient and reliable technology infrastructure has been essential in overcoming this challenge and minimising disruptions to student learning.

A Strong Partnership For Success

Since the beginning, New Era has been an integral partner to CASS, providing comprehensive IT support and guidance. Our expertise includes a variety of tech solutions for education including management, software solutions, technology procurement, and cybersecurity, ensuring a secure and efficient digital environment.

CASS staff can submit support requests through a dedicated helpdesk to ensure prompt IT assistance. New Era offers on-site and remote support, ensuring timely resolutions to technical issues. Regular on-site visits to the main CASS office help strengthen this support network.

Proactive planning is essential for a successful school year. CASS and New Era collaborate closely to develop annual plans, aligning technology investments with the school’s IT goals. This helps us use resources wisely and minimises disruptions to the learning environment.

What’s Next?

As CASS expands its reach to more students across Central Auckland, New Era will continue to provide the necessary technological infrastructure and support. The upcoming rollout of Windows 11 devices, coupled with exploring new technologies, will ensure CASS remains at the forefront of educational innovation. This approach will empower students to thrive in an increasingly digital world.

A Sneak Peek Into The Future:

CASS is currently constructing a state-of-the-art base school, scheduled for completion in late 2025. This new facility is a direct result of the merger of two schools and will be tailored to the specific needs of CASS students with New Era’s support.

The base school will feature a centralised administrative hub, dedicated therapy spaces, and versatile training and meeting areas. There are five learning hubs, each housing classrooms, therapy spaces, a fitness centre, a teaching kitchen, and a hydrotherapy pool. Each will provide students with a comprehensive learning style and stimulate learning experiences. The new building will replace outdated facilities that have hindered the school’s ability to deliver optimal education and will serve as a central hub for satellite classes and outreach services.

A New Era of Education:

The partnership between CASS and New Era showcases the transformative power of technology in education. By embracing innovation and collaboration, CASS has created a supportive learning environment where students with diverse needs can thrive. This case study demonstrates how technology can be leveraged to overcome challenges, enhance teaching and learning, and ultimately improve student outcomes. As technology continues to evolve, CASS and New Era are eager to shape the future of education for generations to come.

If you want to discover how we can support your school or business, schedule a consultation and let New Era help achieve your ICT goals.