Operation of Special Schools for Pupils in Grades 4–8 with Moderate and Severe Intellectual and Multiple Disabilities During The Covid-19 Pandemic in Poland

Abstract

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic has particularly affected pupils with intellectual and multiple disabilities. The operation of special schools, which are most often attended by such pupils, varied according to country, but most often these schools remained open. However, teaching pupils during the pandemic turned out to be a new and difficult challenge for teachers and staff. Research Aim: The aim of the study was to characterise the operating of special schools for pupils with intellectual and multiple disabilities in Poland during the COVID-19 pandemic. Method: The research was conducted using a questionnaire survey sent to special schools and posted on the online portal “Special Education”. Eighty-one teachers at special schools served as a sample in the study. Results: The study showed that schools provided mainly regular or hybrid learning, with traditional learning more often in place with pupils in grades 4–6 and remote and hybrid – with pupils in grades 7–8. In the case of remote or hybrid forms, teachers used electronic communicators and platforms for online lessons. However, the learners lacked the ability to work independently and interact directly with the teacher and other pupils. The teachers, therefore, tried to compensate for this lack by using illustrative materials and making sure that their class understood everything. Conclusions: Special schools have overcome a difficult challenge by using both traditional methods and implementing remote ones. Some instruments of remote learning can be used in the future to increase pupils’ independence and their ability to use electronic devices.

Keywords

• special school
• pandemic
• a pupil with an intellectual disability
• a pupil with multiple disabilities.