Speaker
Description
Onojah, D. M.
Federal College of Education (Special), Oyo, Oyo State
onojah.david1751@fcesoyo.edu.ng
Track: Inclusion, Equity and Digital Access
The growing influence of digital technologies in education has created new possibilities for improving teaching and learning outcomes, particularly for children with special needs. In inclusive early childhood education, technology serves as a valuable tool for supporting individualized instruction, enhancing communication, promoting active participation, and addressing diverse learning needs. As educational systems increasingly embrace digital innovation, the preparation of teachers to effectively integrate technology into inclusive classroom practices has become a critical concern. In Nigeria, however, many early childhood educators enter the profession with limited exposure to technology-based instructional strategies and insufficient training in the use of digital and assistive tools for supporting children with disabilities.
This paper examines the state of technology integration in teacher preparation for inclusive early childhood education of children with special needs in Nigeria. It highlights the importance of equipping pre-service and in-service teachers with the competencies required to utilize technology effectively in diverse learning environments. The paper identifies major challenges, including inadequate technological infrastructure, limited access to digital devices, insufficient professional development opportunities, poor funding, weak policy implementation, and gaps in teacher education curricula. These constraints continue to hinder the effective use of technology in fostering inclusive learning experiences for young children with special educational needs.
The paper argues that meaningful inclusion in the digital age requires a comprehensive approach that prioritizes teacher capacity development and access to appropriate technological resources. It recommends curriculum reforms, continuous professional training, improved funding mechanisms, stronger institutional support, and strategic partnerships among stakeholders. Addressing these challenges will enhance teacher effectiveness and contribute to the provision of equitable, inclusive, and high-quality early childhood education for all children in Nigeria.