Evaluation of the Assistive Technology Training Pilot

The document evaluates the Assistive Technology Training Pilot program, designed to enhance the skills of school staff in using assistive technology (AT) to support students with special educational needs and disabilities. CooperGibson Research conducted the evaluation through interviews, surveys, and attendance data. The program, which included online training, resources, and peer support, was largely successful, with 87% of AT Champions satisfied and notable improvements in awareness and confidence in AT use. However, participants expressed a need for more detailed training on specific tools. While the program fostered discussions and plans for further AT investment, challenges such as workload balance and embedding AT in school practices were identified. Suggestions for improvement included more hands-on training and better networking opportunities. The evaluation found that the program positively impacted staff confidence and student outcomes, but recommended further research to assess long-term effects. The majority of participating schools were urban, with diverse regional and school type representation. Overall, the pilot is seen as a positive initiative for raising AT awareness and usage in educational settings. **This summary was written by an AI model and therefore should not be considered a definitive summary of the report. If you are aware of inaccuracies, please email evaluation.registry@cabinetoffice.gov.uk.**

Description

• Lead department: Department for Education (DfE)
• Evaluation stage: A complete evaluation report
• Other departments: No other departments listed
• Evaluation types: Impact evaluation; Process evaluation
• Impact methods: Generic research method
• Process methods: Individual interviews
• Grant information: This intervention is not distributing funding via a grant
• Government Major Project information: This intervention is not a major project
• Policies: No policies provided

Event Dates

• Event Name: Publication of final results
• Event date: June 2022

Evaluation Costs

• Cost: Not provided

Evaluation sharing

• Link(s) to published report(s): Yes
• Links to evaluation plans: No link provided
• Findings: Not provided
• Permission to share confirmed: Yes