Unit 4 Gender responsive and inclusive pedagogy

6.1. Meaning of Special Educational Needs (SEN)

Special Educational Needs (SEN) refers to the learning difficulties or disabilities that require special support, adaptations, or educational services to help a learner achieve their full potential in school and society. A learner is considered to have special educational needs when they experience difficulties in learning, communication, behavior, physical functioning, sensory functioning, or social participation that make it harder for them to benefit from regular educational programs without additional support.

According to UNESCO, special educational needs refer to educational needs arising from disabilities or learning difficulties that make it necessary for learners to receive additional educational support to access and benefit from education effectively.

The concept of special educational needs emphasizes that education systems should adapt to meet the diverse needs of learners rather than expecting all learners to fit into a single teaching approach. This may involve providing specialized teaching methods, assistive technologies, modified curricula, individualized educational plans, additional learning resources, or support from special education professionals.