Vision impairment.....?

Question

I am getting a new student next week who I am told has a severe vision impairment. What changes should I make to my classroom to accomodate her?

Answer 1

You need to clear the clutter.  

Look at the aisles and see what's sticking out that she could trip over.  

Establish the best layout of the desks and leave them that way for the rest of the year.  

Think about how  you can use textures/ embossed stickers... to help identify things.

Talk to the other students about using descriptive language.    Tell them the more they can create a picture with their words the better.

Be sure to tell them it's OK to warn her if she's about to collide with something, or trip.   Teach them how to describe an obstacle, and have them practice with each other before she arrives.    That way you can address their delivery as well as field any questions.   You'd also get a sense of who might pose a teasing risk during this exercise and have a chance to have a preemptive talk.

If possible, talk to her parents about what approach she responds to best.   Does she like unsolicited help, or does she prefer people wait until she asks?  Ask if there is anything they can think of that would help her transition.   They'll be happy to give you as much info as you need, as well as encouraged that you care enough to ask.

Answer 2

how old is teh student-generally you should ask if the student wants help before going ahead and offering assistance

also-if teh student needs to be guided-let the student take you by the elbow-not the hand-

there should be a specialist from teh commission for the blind that works with her and teh school on accommodations-

there can be braille, recorded materials/computer tech, magnifying glass, etc.

the student should have a 504 plan or possibly an IEP -read these documents

Answer 3

I hope they have given you some more information about this student.   What do they mean by "severe"?   Can she read print?   Does she need large sized print?  Or does she read Braille?   Or does she need auditory input?   Can she see small objects?   Or can she see only light?   You need to find out more information before you can plan accommodations.

Answer 4

What kind of vision impairment were talking about?Is it nearsighted or farsighted .The lighting in the room to be adjusted, and the writing on the chalkboard if that's one of the classroom tools are required,or is it text books with magnify lenses also as a preferences,you haven't described?If the student is colorblind then keep everything black and white scenareo.

Answer 5

Doesn't this child have an IEP plan (special education)?

The IEP plan is suppose to list everything you need to do.

Answer 6

Have her sit in the front and give her a pair of binoculars.