Going back to school with a visual impairment

It’s not hard to picture what going back to school is like for most students. But what is it like for a person with low vision? Well, while they face a unique set of challenges and use different tools, their school experience is more similar to their sighted peers than might originally meet the eye. 

Back to school

Going back to school can be a very daunting task especially when you can’t see to understand what is happening in the world around you. Always remember that you should prepare for everything to change and if nothing changes then that is a bonus. 

Alternative learning tools

There are many alternative learning tools that a student who is blind or partially sighted may use. These include braille Or large print, screen readers, audiobooks and digital text or tactile maps and diagrams. 

Braille or large print

Braille 

Braille is a code which uses 6 dots to represent both letters in the alphabet and contractions depending which grade the braillist is using. Grade 1 braille uses the alphabet and punctuation and grade 2 braille uses elements of grade 1 braille and adds contractions for certain elements. Braille displays connect to computers and convert the text into braille allowing students to access what is on the screen. 

Large print

Although this may seem like common sense for someone with low vision it often isn’t the first thing to be recommended. The first thing is often magnifiers and assistive technology to aid a student in the classroom, even though it would often be easier to make the text on materials larger. 

Screen readers

Using a screen reader is often an easy solution when in class materials aren’t accessible. They read the information on the screen aloud so the text is then easily accessible no matter the level of vision loss, although some support may be required initially when learning to use a screen reader.  

Audiobooks and digital text 

Audiobooks and digital text are a great option if you often find yourself struggling to access physical text. Both of these are great options if you need to reduce the amount of time you are using your eyes to reduce eye strain. 

Tactile maps and diagrams

Tactile maps and diagrams allow someone who is blind or has low vision to visualise thing through touch allowing them to have access to the national curriculum in subjects such as maths and science. They provide raised line drawings. 

Navigating the school environment 

One of the biggest challenges is navigating the school environment (the bustling stairs and hallways and the busy classrooms. Many students who are blind or partially sighted learn to navigate their surroundings using mobility aids. These mobility aids detect obstacles and changes in elevation. Orientation and Mobility (O&M) Officers (sometimes referred to as habilitation specialists) support students who are blind and partially sighted in learning to navigate their environment safely and independently. 

Top tips 

• Don't be afraid to speak up 
• If something isn’t working or something isn’t right talk to someone 
• Remember that everyone faces challenges 
• Don’t be afraid to use assistive technology 
• Never feel bad for asking for materials in an accessible format