Teaching Children with Visual Impairment: Creating Empowering Classrooms from Coursera

In the education of children with visual impairment, there is a global movement away from segregated special schooling, and towards inclusive neighbourhood schools. Inclusion provides an opportunity for everyone, teachers as well as learners, to become more acquainted about life with visual impairment and to overcome some of the barriers of difference which have existed in the past. But if it is to be successful, teachers and others require key skills and insights in order to create classroom environments that fully accommodate the learning needs of children with visual impairment.

In this course, you will discover the visually impaired child by recognizing that there are many different eye conditions and that each affects learning and behavior differently. During the course, we will explore the Expanded Core Curriculum, which is a collection of content areas that teachers integrate into the core curriculum to give visually impaired learners access to knowledge that sighted learners gain through observation. You will also learn how to make your classroom, the content, your teaching, and the assessments accessible through curriculum differentiation strategies. By the end of the course, you will have the necessary tools to create empowering classrooms where you can teach children with visual impairment in an inclusive, accessible, and attuned space.

You will be able to purchase a Verified Certificate if you wish to show evidence of your achievements, but this is optional, and you may apply for Financial Aid if you are unable to pay the certificate fee.

What's inside

Syllabus

Discover the visually impaired child

Welcome to the first week of the course! In this week, we take you on a journey to explore visual impairment and in doing so, help you discover the visually impaired child in your classroom. We consider the different educational settings in which visually impaired children may find themselves as well as different eye conditions and how these circumstances may affect the child’s learning and behaviour in the classroom. You will also start with the important task of creating an empowering classroom by learning how to create an inclusive space. At the end of the week, I have invited a group of visually impaired professionals to discuss some of the issues based on their experience. You will also have the opportunity to share your thoughts in the discussion forum and look through the list of further resources we provide. This week’s assessment is a quiz. May you have a rich and empowering first week.

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Focuses on creating inclusive learning environments for visually impaired children in classrooms

Taught by experienced professionals and guest presenters with specialist knowledge

Covers diverse eye conditions and their impact on learning and behavior

Explores the Expanded Core Curriculum (ECC) to provide access to knowledge for visually impaired learners

Guides in creating empowering classrooms with inclusive spaces and resources

Provides practical strategies for curriculum differentiation and assistive technology integration

Reviews summary

Teaching visually impaired children effectively

According to learners, this course provides a comprehensive and practical foundation for teaching children with visual impairment in inclusive classroom settings. Students particularly appreciate the detailed exploration of the Expanded Core Curriculum (ECC) and the practical strategies offered for curriculum differentiation and using assistive technology. The inclusion of guest speakers and panel discussions, often featuring individuals with lived experience, is highlighted as a significant strength, offering valuable real-world insights. Many feel the course equips them with the necessary tools to create empowering learning environments.

Excellent starting point for educators.

"This course is an excellent starting point for anyone working with visually impaired children."

"It provides a solid foundation if you are new to the field or need a refresher."

"For beginners, it covers the essentials clearly and effectively."

"I feel much more confident after taking this course as a first step."

Detailed look at essential VI skills.

"The deep dive into the Expanded Core Curriculum was a highlight for me; it's essential knowledge."

"I hadn't fully understood the ECC before, and this course explained it thoroughly and its importance."

"Learning about the different ECC areas was a game-changer for how I plan lessons."

"The ECC section alone made the course worthwhile."

Insights from experts and VI individuals.

"The guest speakers and panel discussions were incredibly valuable, adding diverse perspectives."

"Hearing from individuals with visual impairments themselves was profoundly impactful and insightful."

"The experts shared practical experiences that enhanced the theoretical knowledge provided."

"I especially enjoyed the panel discussions at the end of each week."

Offers actionable tips for the classroom.

"I learned practical strategies for curriculum differentiation and adapting materials that I can use immediately."

"The section on assistive technology was very helpful, providing clear examples of useful tools."

"The course gave me concrete ideas on how to create a truly inclusive space for my students."

"I appreciated the focus on actionable steps rather than just theory."

Covers key areas for teaching VI children.

"This course provides a comprehensive overview of teaching children with visual impairments. I feel much better equipped."

"The content is well-structured and covers all the crucial aspects, from different eye conditions to inclusion strategies."

"I found the material on the Expanded Core Curriculum particularly insightful and applicable to my work."

"It gave me a solid understanding of the unique needs of students with visual impairments and how to address them."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Teaching Children with Visual Impairment: Creating Empowering Classrooms with these activities:

Review the basics of visual impairments

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Become familiar with the different types of visual impairments and their impact on learning.

Browse courses on Visual Impairment

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Read articles and watch videos about visual impairments.
Talk to people with visual impairments about their experiences.
Visit a school or organization for people with visual impairments.

Review Previous Knowledge on Eye Conditions

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Refresh your understanding of the different types and characteristics of eye conditions to better support students.

Browse courses on Ophthalmology

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Refer to Course Materials or Books on Eye Conditions
Attend a Lecture or Webinar on Eye Conditions
Complete Practice Questions or Quizzes on Eye Conditions

Read "Supporting Students with Visual Impairment" by Jonathan Rix

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Gain a deeper understanding of the unique needs and challenges faced by visually impaired students.

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Summarize the Main Points and Key Concepts
Read and Annotate the Book
Reflect on the Implications for Your Own Teaching Practice

Nine other activities

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Find a mentor who is an expert in visual impairment education

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Seek out guidance and support from an experienced professional in the field of visual impairment education.

Browse courses on Mentorship

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Request informational interviews to learn about their expertise and experience.
Attend industry events and conferences.
Reach out to professors, researchers, or practitioners in the field.

Explore Assistive Technology Options

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Investigate different assistive technology devices to enhance learning for visually impaired students.

Browse courses on Assistive Technology

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Identify Different Types of Assistive Technology Devices
Research the Features and Benefits of Each Device
Explore Case Studies or Examples of How the Devices Have Been Used Successfully
Evaluate and Select Appropriate Devices for Visually Impaired Students

Learn about the Expanded Core Curriculum (ECC)

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Gain in-depth knowledge of the ECC and its importance for teaching students with visual impairments.

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Watch videos and read articles about the ECC.
Attend a workshop or training on the ECC.
Develop a lesson plan that incorporates the ECC.

Practice Visual Acuity Tests

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Use various tests to assess the vision of visually impaired children and practice interpreting the results.

Browse courses on Visual Impairment

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Identify and Gather the Necessary Equipment for Visual Acuity Testing
Learn the Correct Procedures for Administering Visual Acuity Tests
Practice Administering Visual Acuity Tests on Peers or Volunteers
Interpret the Results of the Visual Acuity Tests and Make Appropriate Recommendations

Attend a Workshop on Visual Impairment

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Enhance your knowledge and skills by attending a workshop led by experts in the field of visual impairment.

Browse courses on Visual Impairment

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Research and Identify Relevant Workshops
Register for the Workshop and Prepare in Advance
Attend the Workshop and Actively Participate
Reflect on Your Learning and Apply It to Your Teaching Practice

Volunteer as a mentor for students with visual impairments

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Provide guidance, support, and encouragement to students with visual impairments, fostering their academic and personal growth.

Browse courses on Mentoring

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Contact a local school or organization for students with visual impairments.
Complete any necessary training or orientation.
Meet with your mentee regularly and provide support and guidance.
Attend school events and activities to support your mentee.

Practice differentiating curriculum for students with visual impairments

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Enhance your skills in modifying and adapting curriculum materials for students with visual impairments.

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Identify the specific needs of students with visual impairments.
Research and select appropriate assistive technology and teaching strategies.
Modify and adapt curriculum materials to meet the needs of students with visual impairments.

Develop an Inclusive Classroom Poster

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Design a poster that visually represents the principles of inclusivity for students with visual impairments.

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Brainstorm Ideas for the Poster
Use Visuals, Symbols, and Clear Language
Get Feedback from Visually Impaired Individuals or Experts
Display the Poster Prominently in the Classroom

Participate in a Case Study Challenge

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Apply your knowledge by analyzing a case study and developing a plan to support a visually impaired student.

Browse courses on Case Studies

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Identify a Case Study or Problem Related to Visual Impairment
Analyze the Case Study and Identify Key Issues
Develop a Comprehensive Plan to Support the Student
Share Your Plan with Others and Get Feedback

Career center

Learners who complete Teaching Children with Visual Impairment: Creating Empowering Classrooms will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Special Education Teacher

As a Special Education Teacher, your main duties include planning educational programs, preparing learning materials, and assisting children with visual impairments in developing their academic and social skills. You will need to learn about different eye conditions, how they affect learning and behavior, and how to create an inclusive and accessible learning environment. This course will help you develop the necessary skills and knowledge to create empowering classrooms for children with visual impairment.

See salaries and explore the career path for Special Education Teacher

Vision Rehabilitation Therapist

A Vision Rehabilitation Therapist helps people with visual impairments regain or improve their vision. They assess patients' visual abilities, develop and implement treatment plans, and provide counseling and support. This course will help you understand the different eye conditions, how they affect learning and behavior, and how to create an inclusive and accessible learning environment for children with visual impairments.

See salaries and explore the career path for Vision Rehabilitation Therapist

Orientation and Mobility Specialist

An Orientation and Mobility Specialist teaches people with visual impairments how to travel safely and independently. They assess patients' orientation and mobility skills, develop and implement training plans, and provide counseling and support. This course will help you understand the different eye conditions, how they affect learning and behavior, and how to create an inclusive and accessible learning environment for children with visual impairments.

See salaries and explore the career path for Orientation and Mobility Specialist

Assistive Technology Specialist

An Assistive Technology Specialist helps people with disabilities use assistive technology devices and services. They assess patients' needs, recommend and implement appropriate technology solutions, and provide training and support. This course will help you understand the different assistive technology devices and services available for children with visual impairments and how to use them effectively in the classroom.

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Educational Diagnostician

An Educational Diagnostician assesses students with learning disabilities and other special needs. They conduct assessments, analyze data, and develop educational plans. This course will help you understand the different eye conditions and how they affect learning and behavior, and how to create an inclusive and accessible learning environment for children with visual impairments.

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School Psychologist

A School Psychologist provides psychological services to students in schools. They assess students' mental health needs, provide counseling and therapy, and develop and implement school-wide mental health programs. This course will help you understand the different eye conditions and how they affect learning and behavior, and how to create an inclusive and accessible learning environment for children with visual impairments.

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Curriculum Developer

A Curriculum Developer creates and develops educational materials and programs. They research and identify educational needs, develop and implement curriculum, and evaluate the effectiveness of educational programs. This course will help you understand the different eye conditions and how they affect learning and behavior, and how to create an inclusive and accessible learning environment for children with visual impairments.

See salaries and explore the career path for Curriculum Developer

Instructional Designer

An Instructional Designer creates and develops educational materials and programs. They research and identify educational needs, develop and implement curriculum, and evaluate the effectiveness of educational programs. This course will help you understand the different eye conditions and how they affect learning and behavior, and how to create an inclusive and accessible learning environment for children with visual impairments.

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Educational Researcher

An Educational Researcher conducts research on educational topics. They design and conduct research studies, analyze data, and publish their findings. This course will help you understand the different eye conditions and how they affect learning and behavior, and how to create an inclusive and accessible learning environment for children with visual impairments.

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Early Childhood Educator

An Early Childhood Educator provides educational services to young children. They develop and implement curriculum, provide care and supervision, and assess children's progress. This course will help you understand the different eye conditions and how they affect learning and behavior, and how to create an inclusive and accessible learning environment for children with visual impairments.

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School Administrator

A School Administrator manages and oversees the operation of a school. They develop and implement school policies, supervise staff, and ensure the school meets educational standards. This course will help you understand the different eye conditions and how they affect learning and behavior, and how to create an inclusive and accessible learning environment for children with visual impairments.

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Social Worker

A Social Worker provides social services to individuals, families, and groups. They assess needs, develop and implement plans to address social problems, and advocate for social justice. This course will help you understand the different eye conditions and how they affect learning and behavior, and how to create an inclusive and accessible learning environment for children with visual impairments.

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Occupational Therapist

An Occupational Therapist helps people with disabilities improve their ability to perform everyday activities. They assess patients' needs, develop and implement treatment plans, and provide training and support. This course will help you understand the different eye conditions and how they affect learning and behavior, and how to create an inclusive and accessible learning environment for children with visual impairments.

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Physical Therapist

A Physical Therapist helps people with disabilities improve their physical function. They assess patients' needs, develop and implement treatment plans, and provide training and support. This course will help you understand the different eye conditions and how they affect learning and behavior, and how to create an inclusive and accessible learning environment for children with visual impairments.

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Speech-Language Pathologist

A Speech-Language Pathologist helps people with speech, language, and swallowing disorders. They assess patients' needs, develop and implement treatment plans, and provide training and support. This course will help you understand the different eye conditions and how they affect learning and behavior, and how to create an inclusive and accessible learning environment for children with visual impairments.

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