Report
on Assistive Technology for Visual Impairment
The disability I chose for my report on Assistive Technology
(AT) is Visual Impairment. A child with a visual impairment can be limited in
their learning because they are unable to see images clearly, thus interfering
with their ability to take in and comprehend information. Since their “eyesight cannot be corrected to
a “normal level” (http://www.news-medical.net/health/What-is-visual-impairment.aspx), the teacher can use
AT to positively affect their educational performance. Visual impairment can range from complete
loss of vision (Braille/Tactile Learner) or Low Vision (Print Learner).
Limitations can also vary based on the age of the child. For instance, a young
child may have impressive expressive speech, but receptive language is often
delayed. An older student may have difficulty carrying on a conversation that
is cohesive. Their conversations could also tend to be related to their
self-interests, while a secondary student would struggle with starting
conversation with peers and sustaining peer relationships.
There
are many types of AT designed to help students with visual impairment to be
successful in the classroom. I would like to share two specific types. The
first is Supernova Access Suite. This AT is a “complete screen reader with
natural sounding speech and integrated screen magnifier with Braille display
support”. A specialized, large print keyboard can also be purchased with the
software. To see the various software choices, go to http://www.teachthought.com/technology/8-helpful-assistive-technology-tools-for-your-classroom/. A variety of assistive keyboards, can
also be seen in the slide show at http://www.slideshare.net/SFecich/assistive-technology-for-students-with-visual-impairments. This technology is available in
several different forms, allowing for ability to meet the varying levels of
visual impairment. To try out a free download to see if it meets your student’s
needs, go to YourDolphin.com.
The second type of AT that improves the functionality of visually
impaired students are video magnifiers. A video magnifier “uses a video camera
to display a magnified image on a monitor or television screen” (http://www.teachthought.com/technology/8-helpful-assistive-technology-tools-for-your-classroom/). They are especially helpful
for students with low vision that are struggling in their reading and writing. Multiple
styles can be found at Ulva.com. This AT is also referred to as a kind of
“closed-circuit television” or CCTV.
The future direction of AT for students with visual impairment is
promising considering the advancement of technology in recent years. A company
out of Boston called Visus Technology, Inc. is investigating a new “interactive
wireless system” that will enable individuals with visual impairment to
identify faces, recognize colors, and move functionally
in the world through the use of wireless technology (The Carroll Center for the
Blind). As technology continues to advance, I am certain that the options for
visually impaired students will continue to increase.
References
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