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Virtual Public Transport: Boosting Independence and Social Skills in Special Education

Virtual OV has been specially developed for special education to support pupils and students in increasing their independence and participation in society.

This innovative platform offers neurodivergent young people, such as students with autism or mild intellectual disabilities, the opportunity to practice using public transport in a safe environment. Through realistic scenarios and guided training, participants build confidence and develop essential travel skills, contributing to their social interaction and self-reliance in society.

What Virtual Public Transport can do for education

Implementation of SLO core objectives
It gives schools in the Netherlands the opportunity to give concrete substance to the SLO core objective of 'basic citizenship skills'

Inclusive education and empowerment
Virtual OV contributes to inclusive education and empowerment for all students, regardless of their background or abilities. It has been developed specifically for neurodivergent people, but in practice it proves to be valuable for all students. 

Reduction of dependency on school transport 
By preparing students for independent travel on public transport, the reliance on student transport is reduced. This increases their mobility and flexibility in everyday life.

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How does virtual public transport contribute to the development of basic citizenship skills?

Implementation of SLO-core objectives

Gives schools the opportunity to give concrete substance to the SLO core objective 'basic citizenship skills'

Inclusive education and empowerment

Virtual OV contributes to inclusive education and empowerment for all students, regardless of their background or abilities. It has been developed specifically for neurodivergent people, but in practice it proves to be valuable for all students. 

Reduction of dependency on school transport

By preparing students for independent travel on public transport, the reliance on student transport is reduced. This increases their mobility and flexibility in everyday life.

Improved connection to further education and the labour market

By better preparing pupils for independent travel and social participation, schools increase their pupils' chances of successful transition to further education or the labour market.
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How does virtual public transport contribute to the development of basic Citizenship skills?

Independence and self-direction
Virtual OV mimics everyday travel situations, allowing participants to safely practice using public transport (OV). This prepares them for independent travel in the real world and thus boosts their confidence.

Social skills and interaction
Virtual OV prepares participants for social interactions they encounter on public transport, giving them more confidence in interacting with others while traveling. By simulating situations involving delays and other unexpected events, Virtual OV helps develop social skills and stress management.
 
Understanding of one's own rights and responsibilities
Participants learn to make conscious choices about their journey, so that they can exercise their rights as public transport users and become aware of their responsibilities.

By deploying Virtual OV, you provide your students with a unique opportunity to develop essential life skills in a safe, controlled environment. In this way, together we prepare young people for active participation in society.

Discover how Virtual OV can enrich your educational program and empower your students. Contact us for more information or a demonstration.