This course prepares participants to teach the reading and writing of Grade 2 Braille. Students learn to write literary Braille using both a Perkins Brailler and a slate and stylus. Topics include reading readiness, tracking, tactile discrimination, and reading methods. This course goes beyond the physical aspects of vision loss introduced in SPE G 511 to look at functional and psychological aspects. The course includes a review of clinical procedures and the interpretation of clinical reports.
Emphasis is given to conducting individualized functional vision assessments.
The previous study of optics is applied optical low vision devices. The course provides a practical, hands-on approach to learning through vision simulation activities and the development of a functional vision assessment kit. This course examines the foundations of learning and teaching orientation and mobility. The weekly lectures provide an introduction to the principles of concept development, spatial orientation, and environmental analysis as these topics relate to independent travel by visually impaired individuals. In addition, a teacher-guided practicum lab meets for weekly sessions, totaling 120 hours throughout the semester.