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Distance Education Support UnitFrom Researching Virtual Initiatives in EducationThe Distance Education Support Unit (DESU) is a state-wide virtual school in St Ives, New South Wales, Australia. It providing distance education programs for students with an intellectual disability who are unable to attend school in a face-to-face setting such as isolated students with intellectual and multiple disabilities from Pre-school to Year 12 (Students aged 4 to 18 years). DESU is part of the New South Wales Department of Education and Training Distance Education Network and is located at Sir Eric Woodward School.
With support from the DESU, students can achieve a Life Skills School Certificate and Higher School Certificate, apply for TAFE delivered Vocational Education and Training courses, participate in work experience and access post-school programs where available. Flexible options are also available for students requiring a mixed mode of life-skills and regular subjects.
More DetailsTechnology use-wise DESU uses blogs, web2.0 tools, satellite lessons, ooVoo and Skype video chats. It utilises text to speech programs, iPods, iPads and voice output devices, Nintendo Wii as a means of developing fitness and coordination through virtual games. DESU also supports programmes using an exciting array of resources such as stimulating sensory equipment for students with high support needs and expands interactive lessons with teachers via the internet and through educational software
Students wishing to enrol in the DESU must also meet the criteria for distance education enrolment outlined in the Distance Education Enrolment Guidelines, in one of the following categories:
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