Blind or Low Vision

Blindness or low vision encompasses a spectrum of vision experiences. A person's vision can be impacted in various ways, including central vision loss, peripheral vision loss and blurry or hazy vision. It is possible to be legally blind and still have some useful vision for specific tasks, such as a pinhole of vision that can be used for reading. Some people are able to sense light and shadow movements, whilst others may only have peripheral vision. While blindness or low vision can present challenges with everyday activities, the majority of these difficulties arise from societal barriers and accessibility issues rather than an individual's vision condition. 

People who are blind or have low vision have some innovative ways to adapt to living in a visual world. These include using a white cane, a guide dog, or echolocation to navigate spaces. They may use handheld or electronic magnifiers to enlarge text and images. Screen reading software (such as JAWS, NVDA or VoiceOver) is very useful for listening to electronic text and navigating computers, phones and tablets. It is common to seek out tactile features to use as guides for many different activities - from crossing the road to using the microwave.

How can I support learners who are Blind or have Low Vision?

Each learner's eyesight challenges are as individual as they are. Even two students with the same condition will have very different visual experiences. It's essential to find out what tools and strategies each student uses so you can accommodate their needs.

Ask your student:

• What technology and tools do you use for studying? (Eg: magnifiers, screen readers)
• What format works best for you?
  • Large Print - what font and size?
  • Electronic - Word, PDF, Web based or other?
  • Braille - hardcopy or electronic?

Do:

• Discuss individual needs with your student
• Verbally describe any visual content, including pictures in slides and writing on the whiteboard
• Provide written and visual materials in advance and in an accessible format
• Use Alt Text to describe any images
• Use contrasting colours
• Use structured headings to assist with document navigation
• Adjust lighting if needed
• Allow use of Assistive Technology, including phones, laptops and recording devices.

Links

I have further questions...

Please get in touch with our Access4Success team. We would be happy to support you. Contact Access4Success