Abstract
The article addresses the issue of training future special educators to use digital technologies in correctional work with children with special needs. Based on an analysis of foreign and national theoretical sources, the article provides an argument that the training of special educators should meet the current requirements of society aimed at changing attitudes towards children with special needs. This training should also meet society’s demand for the active introduction of digital resources into the educational environment and prepare specialists with developed digital competencies to work in a digital educational environment. Increasing the digital competencies of special educators (defectologists) opens up new opportunities for organizing the educational environment, combining information and communication technologies with pedagogical technologies, and overcoming difficulties in the psychophysical development of students with special needs. Training in this area should ensure that future special educators develop a deep understanding of the possibilities of using digital technologies in their professional activities, as well as an awareness of the advantages and disadvantages of their use, and the knowledge and skills required for their application. Nevertheless, the authors note that insufficient attention is currently paid to the development of special information and communication competence among future special educators. The article presents general characteristics of the concept of “digital competencies.” It also considers the main criteria for selecting interactive computer games for conducting correctional and developmental classes with children with various developmental disorders. Training special educators to use digital technologies in their professional activities should combine scientific and practical training with the development of the personal qualities necessary for the formation of digital competencies. These qualities are becoming increasingly relevant in the context of the digitalization of education and are necessary for successfully addressing professional tasks through the use of digital technologies when working with children with special needs.