low vision in the classroom ann heard low vision and blind support email: [email protected]
TRANSCRIPT
Definition
• Impaired visual function caused by any disorder of the eye or visual system.
• Resulting in a reduced level of vision that cannot be improved to normal with glasses, contacts, medication or surgery.
• Individuals have difficulty engaging in normal day-to-day activities.
• Best-corrected vision in better eye becomes less than 6/18.
In the Classroom
Learners in the classroom need to see their educator, classmates, the
blackboard, TV, computer, overheads and presentations. They need to take
notes, complete assignments, read and take tests.
For low vision learners, many of these tasks are more difficult.
Individuality
The range of medical conditions which may give rise to visual impairment is
both large and complex.
The educator needs to understand the functional vision of the learner so this
may be put into effective use.
Different Eye Conditions Different Needs
Depending on Condition?
Bright or dim light
Light from side or back
Enlarged print or normal
Simple magnifiers or technology
Cane or not
The Whole Learner
Important to identify needs early, if undetected or treated in an unsuitable or non-empathetic manner can give rise to :-• Poor reading and writing skills• Learner could become inattentive• Learner could become distracted and
disruptive • Presentation and accuracy of work
may suffer
Important to Recognise Signs
The learner may run the risk of social and emotional challenges as a result of
his/her inability to cope with the demands of a highly visually oriented
world.
Sometimes not easy for educator to recognise, as learner who has never
seen normally, does not know what he is supposed to see.
Look forBloodshot
Cloudy
Turn In
Turn Out
Unusual Movement
Excessive Blinking
Eye Rubbing
Eyes Move Independently
Constant Frowning
Shuts or covers one eye
Excessive Irritability during close activities
Holds toys close
Knocks things over
Moves head not eyes
Observe!!!
• Reading, writing and drawing difficulty• Poor concentration when using near
vision• Difficulty recognising colours• Stumbles over objects• Bumps into objects• Difficulties with lighting (glare)• Walks with shuffle or stoop• Dislikes physical activity
Listen!!!• “I can’t see that”
• “I see two”
• “I feel dizzy”
• “My head hurts”
• “I feel sick”
Frequently asked questions
• How can contrast be used?• Does the learner need more time to complete
tasks?• Must I help the learner move around?• Must the learner use bright strong colours?• Can the learner use a pencil or a koki?• Can the learner be encouraged to play rough
and tumble?• What about technology?
Frequently asked questions
• Must I reorganise the environment?• What lighting is good?• How does glare affect?
•Will making things bigger help?
• Can spectacles help?• Should the learner sit close to me?
I Can See
• I - Illumination• C – Colour and Contrast• S - Size (magnification)
10 Simple Tips• Allow the learner to select preferred seating,
preferably away from glare sources such as windows.
• Permit low vision learner to wear sunglasses or a hat with visor if they are helpful inside.
• Provide with hand-outs rather than being required to copy from the board. Hand-outs should be the correct size print for the learner.
• Provide extra time to complete work, tests and assignments as well as adjust to the learning environment.
• Allow learner to use technology equipped with screen enlarging software.
10 Simple Tips (cont)
• Provide learner with a tilted desk.• Provide learner with large print and broad writing
materials (felt-tip pens) to increase visibility.• Allow learner to use simple magnifiers, telescopes.• Consider having a class session so schoolmates
can learn what visual disorders are all about. • Finally, the teacher should inquire to be certain the
student can see what is being presented. Don’t assume that if they don’t say anything, they are able to see it.
Team Support Needed
• Family - immediate and extended
• GP• Ophthalmologist• Geneticist• Optometrist • Low Vision Optometrist• Orientation and Mobility
Instructor• Educator• Specialist Educator
• Skills Developer• Psychologist• OT • Audiologist• Orthoptist• Neurologist• NGO• Social Worker
Communication
Important that all information regarding the learner is shared throughout the
learner’s school career.
• Not all vision impairment is the same• Each learner is an individual• Join hands with the Team• Be adaptable• Observe and listen• Learner’s needs will change as he
develops
UNDERSTAND THE LEARNER’S EYE CONDITION!
Points to Remember