Bett European TeachMeet 2023
At the start of this session the children in Primary 7 at ESMS began a new study of a novel. A Kind of Spark is written by autistic author Elle McNicoll, and features an autistic girl growing up in Edinburgh. It draws parallels between society’s view of autism to the treatment of witches in the 16th Century. The novel vividly describes behaviours such as stimming, self-soothing and meltdowns and Simon was keen for the children to better understand what these behaviours are like and how they impact on all aspects of an autistic person’s life.
Here, the VR headsets began a new purpose. In association with Autism UK, ClassVR hosted content to simulate autistic meltdowns from the perspective of a boy and a girl. During the study of the novel, children in P7 experienced these scenarios and then discussed their thoughts and feelings afterwards.
Whilst the initial aim was to enhance the novel for the children, it soon became apparent that the greater value in the lesson was to develop a better sense of empathy for friends and colleagues who process the world around them differently. The unit of “Neuroempathy” was born.
Children completely had to rethink their understanding of ‘support’ and some amazing adjustments were made instantly to classrooms and learning spaces as a result. Children with ASD were sharing their relief at finally being able to explain to others what they experience on a regular basis. The scenarios last around five minutes each but the discussions thereafter were emotional, honest and truly remarkable.