Making science special for pupils with learning difficulties

• Published in: British journal of special education 2010-09, Vol.37 (3), p.139-147
• Main Authors: Gebbels, Susan, Evans, Stewart M., Murphy, Lynne A.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Creative Teaching; cross-curricular; England; Foreign Countries; Inclusive Schools; Inquiry; Interviews; Learning; Learning disabilities; Learning Motivation; Learning Problems; Learning styles; Marine Biology; moderate learning difficulties; Partnerships; Perception; Program Effectiveness; Program Evaluation; Pupils; Questionnaires; science; Science Education; Special Needs Students
• ISSN: 0952-3383; 1467-8578
• DOI: 10.1111/j.1467-8578.2010.00463.x

In this article Susan Gebbels and Stewart M. Evans from Newcastle University and Lynne A. Murphy who is a practising school teacher in north‐east England discuss how they worked collaboratively on a programme of science education with a group of 16 Key Stage 3 pupils with moderate learning difficulties. The project lasted for one academic year and was part of Creative Partnerships, the Government's flagship creative learning programme. The authors describe some of the challenges faced by teachers to cater for the needs of all pupils within an inclusive school setting. The programme of science education focused on local marine and coastal environments with a special emphasis on fieldwork, enquiry‐based learning and cross‐curricular approaches to learning. The project was evaluated through the use of questionnaires, pupil interviews and informal discussions with teaching staff. Evaluations of the programme were positive. Pupils were more motivated to learn about science, had a sense of pride in their achievements and claimed that participation in the project helped them in forming friendships. The class published and distributed an information booklet on the coast to other schools and the general public.