Inclusion through social skills for learners with autism and intellectual impairments

<< Background >>Learners with challenges in their social development and competences, such as learners with Autism Spectrum Conditions (ASC) and learners with Intellectual Impairment (Intellectual Disability or ID) have an inherent right to receive educational support the area of social skills. Social skills challenges experienced by these children, are a significant barrier to their inclusion, adaptation and participation in the community, and most significantly in the school as their primary environment. However, evidence-based practices and specific educational interventions can lead to positive results for children with ASC and ID and these interventions/training have firm scientific foundation. There is a general lack of quality teaching materials and teacher instructions, adapted to local languages that can effectively support teachers in order to implement these practices and promote the social development and inclusion of learners with ASC and ID. << Objectives >>The overall aims of this project are directly related to the selected priorities and can be defined as follows: 1. To support the inclusion of children with ASC and ID in mainstream schools. 2. To reduce learning disadvantage, early school leaving and low proficiency in basic skills. 3. To support teachers in implementing social skillsdevelopment programs for learners with ASC and ID, in primary schools. This will be achieved by the specific objective of the project - To increase the availability of social skill programs for learners with ASC and ID in primary schools using digital tools. << Implementation >>1. Conducting survey to identify support needs of teachers andlearners2. Developing a handbook/guide for teachers3. Developing video materials (OER) and a dedicated web site4. Multiplier/Dissemination event - On-ilne conference5. Transnational Project Meetings (2)<< Results >>For this purpose, the project activities described in the relevant section of this application will produce the following outcomes/project results: 1. Created methodological guidelines for teachers, and specific, concrete, ready-to-use teaching and learning activities for social skills development 2. Created digital recourses and tools for teaching and learning and a dedicated web platform. 3. Raised awareness in the professional community and among relevant stakeholders on the importance of social skills programs for learners with ASC and ID.