The Effect of Distance Learning through Shad Software on the Academic Achievement of Shahed Primary Special School Students in Alborz Province

Education is one of the most important aspects of children's rights and so the quality of its implementation plays an important role in securing this right. This issue has a particular importance and sensitivity for children with special needs. With the spread of the Corona pandemic in the world, the need for distance education became inevitable. In Iran, distance learning, including at the basic level, was formed using ‘Shad’ software, which is still current in many primary schools. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of this type of education on the educational achievement of children with special needs.

In this study, using a descriptive survey method and a researcher-made questionnaire based on the Academic Achievement Questionnaire adapted from Pham and Taylor's 1994 research, the statistical population, teachers of Shahed Fardis Exceptional School of Karaj was selected and data analysis was performed. Chi-square test and Friedman test were used with Spss software version 24.

The findings showed that the effect of ‘Shad’ software in distance education is positive in terms of software efficiency and effectiveness compared to other methods of distance education and also by creating a specific program to prepare for assessments; However, due to the absenteeism of education, the overall outcome of the comments was a negative impact on students' academic achievement compared to the attendance method at the end of the year. Also, this type of education can have a negative impact on academic achievement by reducing performance during face-to-face assessment, reducing literacy skills, and distracting students due to being at home.

Distance education, especially with the elimination of hardware and software defects, as well as cultural placement and mutual understanding of teachers, parents and students, is an opportunity in some respects to increase academic achievement, but face-to-face education, as well, due to its functions, should still be considered and emphasized by the educational system.