On a recent visit to Abu Dhabi to visit clients, Neil met Students of Determination (SEND), and the team at Al Karamah Training Institute, and was able to see the app Starfish Labs has developed for them in action.
We worked with Al Karamah – supported by The Priory Group / Aspris and Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) – via Microsoft Teams throughout the Covid pandemic – but had never actually met the team or students in-person.
The impact the app has had on students with disabilities is best summed up by Rebecca Bristow of Al Karamah:
The Starfish app has been crucial in supporting students accessing the café work experience programme at Al Karamah Training Institute. The students are able to follow visual step-by-step instructions to complete various tasks with symbols, photos and videos. The app also uses assessment tools such as quizzes and photo evidence to inform data collection. Students are able to use their own iPads to work independently and check next steps without the support of café staff – it has been fundamental in transitioning students into independent work experience placements.
It was great to see the app in action and to hear how much the students enjoy using the app and the resulting learning outcomes.
We’re looking forward to developing further programmes in Mental Health and support for People of Determination in the UAE.
