To ask the Secretary of State for Children, Schools and Families what studies his Department has made of the effectiveness of assistive technologies to assist with the learning of visually impaired and dyslexic children in primary and secondary schools. (165767)

The Department has not carried out formal studies into the effectiveness of assistive technologies. The Special Educational Needs Code of Practice which provides advice on carrying out statutory duties to identify, assess and make provision for pupils' special educational needs says that schools should explore the possible benefits of, and where practicable, secure access for a pupil to appropriate technology. The code also makes it clear that local authorities and schools must make decisions about which actions and provision are appropriate for which pupils on an individual basis.

The Department is currently working with RNIB and a number of other organisations including the British Dyslexia Association to improve the provision of educational materials in accessible formats in schools.