Low Vision in the classroomAnn Heard

Low Vision and Blind SupportEmail: heard.ann48@yahoo.com

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.

IndividualityThe 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 LearnerImportant 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 SignsThe 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 InTurn 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

CommunicationImportant 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

developsUNDERSTAND THE LEARNER’S EYE

CONDITION!

Points to Remember