One of the hallmarks of special education is that it caters to the individual needs of the student. While the majority of special education students thrive with daily attendance in a traditional school environment, some do not do well in those surroundings. There are many advantages for these students in working from the comfort of their own home on a technology-based platform.

Benefits of Learning from Home

Special education students face a variety of health problems, physical disabilities, or emotional or mental issues. The opportunity to learn remotely can be a game-changer for these students for a variety of reasons, including the following:

• Travel is a barrier for many students with mobility problems. Transportation may be a barrier, travel times are generally longer, and they may not have accessible facilities at their destination.
• Learners with disabilities may utilize assistive technology, such as braille readers, voice controls, or sip and puff systems, which are sometimes more accessible or comfortable to use in the privacy of their home.
• Unfortunately, bullying is sometimes a problem for special education students, often resulting in negative academic, emotional, physical, social, or mental health issues. Schooling at home removes the student from this unhealthy environment.
• Some students have serious attention issues, so the traditional classroom is often too stimulating or distracting.
• Working from home generally results in less anxiety, stress, and depression for students when they can work at their own pace from the comfort of home, where they can take breaks as needed.

Benefits of Learning on a Computer

While there is no substitute for interaction with a live teacher, online learning can have substantial advantages for special education students. The most ideal situations combine computer-based learning with a live instructor that the students can interact with virtually. Here are some of the benefits of online learning for students with disabilities:

• Most students with disabilities need extra time to process information. Online lessons allow for unlimited access, allowing additional reviews as needed.
• Working on the computer helps students to develop 21^st-century skills. These technology skills will be beneficial as students enter the competitive job market.
• Accessibility guidelines are easily implemented, including audio formats, special keyboards, and extra-large text. 
• Students become less discouraged on an online platform because they have multiple opportunities to master the material without the fear of ridicule, scrutiny, or comparisons to other students.
• Based on their Individual Education Plan, students receive specialized instruction tailored to their own unique goals and requirements. Although ratios vary, online special education classes usually allow for smaller teacher-student ratios than traditional class settings.

There are a variety of tools available to make learning accessible to students with disabilities. The flexibility of online learning offers a solution for every student, regardless of their specific needs.

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