The process of education within the scope of the Covid-19 measures for children with special needs

Cyprus International University (CIU) Faculty of Education, Special Education Teaching Department Chair Assist. Prof. Dr. Cahit Nuri, stating that there are new conditions in place due to the outbreak of Covid-19, he indicated that education has transformed from a teacher-student cooperation in the schools to a teacher-student-parent triangle, and that this process is a slightly more difficult for children with special needs.

Pointing out that it would be beneficial to highlight the positive aspects of this process, Nuri went on to say, “a big and difficult task is placed upon parents. For this reason, what we have learnt from this process and its contribution to parent-child communication should be evaluated better”.

Explaining that many experts have informed that this process can be turned into an opportunity, Nuri went on to say, "this process provides the unique environment to spend time with children who require special education and learn new things about them."

The continuity of education is important.

Noting that for the education provided by special education teachers or classroom teachers to be beneficial, the continuity of the education is important, Nuri stated that it is also important to determine the days and hours of the children’s education programs in order to establish a program routine.

Expressing that special children may have different areas of interest and have differing needs, Assist. Prof. Dr. Nuri advised, “the children’s areas of interest should be recognized and positive developments in these areas should be enabled. For example, realizing the tendency of a child with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder or autism spectrum disorder to rhythm will contribute positively to their development”.

Stating that with the help of their parents, the children can be included in housework, supporting the development of daily life routines, Nuri noted that the content prepared by teachers for parents should be followed regularly via the distance education channels, with children keeping their sleep, food, use of technology, play, and lesson hours as constant as possible, as its necessary to protect certain routines.

Cahit Nuri emphasized that this process may be more difficult for children with special education requirements and their parents as they have differing needs and concluded, “During this process, the mental state of children with special needs who are affected by even the slightest change are at serious risk. Teacher-parent cooperation is of great importance, especially in order to alleviate the anxiety that occurs”.