Teaching for pupils with special learning difficulties

Question for written answer  E-000385/2021
to the Commission
Rule 138
Athanasios Konstantinou (NI)

Addressing the third European Education Summit (on 10 December 2020), President von der Leyen referred to the new normal regarding education in the COVID era,

pointing out that, while distance learning has undeniably been a valuable tool, it is no substitute for the classroom.

Furthermore, in my opinion, the impact of the pandemic on pupils with special learning difficulties and the difficulties faced by them in adapting to a new and adverse set of circumstances have not been adequately addressed.

While of technology can provide them with valuable educational support, they also need instruction tailored to their individual requirements and, above all, a teacher next to them.

However, the present current circumstances make any immediate teacher-pupil interaction difficult or impossible.

In view of this:

• 1.What steps will the Commission take to raise awareness among teachers regarding the availability of specific software and programmes suitable for children and pupils with learning difficulties and provide training in the use thereof?
• 2.How will it assist teachers in this endeavour, so that both regular pupils and those with special educational requirements have equal access to education in the context of the pandemic?