Teaching Children with Visual Impairment: Creating Empowering Classrooms from Coursera

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.

The Expanded Core Curriculum for the visually impaired child

Welcome to the second week of the course! This week we will deal in some detail with the Expanded Core Curriculum (or ECC). This is a collection of content areas that teachers integrate into the core curriculum to give visually impaired learners access to the incidental knowledge that sighted learners gain through observation. Various guest presenters will discuss the areas of the ECC, bringing you their specialist knowledge. A Braille specialist will introduce what Braille tuition may involve and provide a set of principles to support learners who are being taught Braille. At the end of the week, the panel discussion focuses on the ECCs potential to empower visually impaired learners. You will have an opportunity to share your insights on the discussion forum and add to your learning from the additional resources provided. The assessment this week is a written exercise where you can practice applying the ECC to a lesson of your choice.

Curriculum differentiation and assistive technology

Welcome to the third week of the course! In this week you will learn about the need and importance of differentiating the curriculum for the children with visual impairment. This means modifying and adapting the curriculum according to the different abilities and learning styles of learners within a class. You will also learn about identifying suitable learning and teaching support material, assessment adaptations, and assistive technology devices or programs for each individual child with visual impairment. The week concludes as usual with opinions and experiences from our expert panel, an opportunity to share your thoughts with your peers in the discussion forum, additional resources to explore, and a graded quiz. This week you also have an opportunity to cover additional content on making learning materials accessible for the voluntary honors assignment.

Becoming an empowered teacher

Welcome to the last week on the course! In this week, you will gain further understanding about the importance of tending to psycho-social issues of visually impaired children by listening to them with respect, patience, and compassion. We will also describe practical things you can do to broaden your networks of support. Then you will hear from an experienced school principal about empowering yourself and your school through collaboration s. As it is the last week, we have invited our panellist to discuss this week’s topics as well as offering a final reflection on creating inclusive classrooms. The end of course assessment is a graded quiz, and we will leave you with a rich set of resources to support your endeavour to becoming an empowered teacher.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, 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

Highly rated: teaching visually impaired children

Learners say this excellent course empowers educators working with students with visual impairments. The course provides practical advice on how to teach these students using engaging assignments and effective methods. The knowledgeable instructors share their expertise. They provide clear instructions for differentiating activities, assessments, and accommodations to make classrooms more inclusive. The course encourages empathy and provides opportunities for reflection, making it a valuable resource for educators.

Course content is relevant to educators working with visually impaired students.

"Many of the scenarios are generalized and can be related to USA education system."

"I really found this course interesting and i learnt a lot that i didnt know of especially about visual impaired , the way a teacher should handle themselves in schools with such people"

Course instructors are knowledgeable and experienced in working with visually impaired students.

"This course has left me not only equipped with essential knowledge but also brimming with confidence to embark on my journey of supporting visually impaired children."

"The instructors displayed a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by children with visual impairments and provided insightful strategies to address them."

Course encourages educators to develop empathy and a deep understanding of the challenges faced.

"At the heart of this course is empathy !"

"This course helped me to reflect on my own teachings as well as gain worldly experience from other users and the guest speakers."

Course provides practical, real-world strategies for educating visually impaired students.

"This course has left me not only equipped with essential knowledge but also brimming with confidence to embark on my journey of supporting visually impaired children."

"I gained a profound insight into the daily lives and experiences of these children. This newfound understanding has transformed the way I approach my work and has made me more capable of tailoring my support to meet their individual needs."

Course emphasizes the importance of inclusive education and provides strategies for creating empowering classrooms for visually impaired students.

"I wholeheartedly recommend this course to anyone who is passionate about working with children with visual impairments."

"The dedication of the instructors, the quality of the content, and the transformative nature of the learning experience make this course truly commendable."

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.

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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.

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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.

See salaries and explore the career path for Assistive Technology Specialist

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.

See salaries and explore the career path for Educational Diagnostician

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.

See salaries and explore the career path for School Psychologist

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.

See salaries and explore the career path for Instructional Designer

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

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.

See salaries and explore the career path for Educational Researcher

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.

See salaries and explore the career path for Early Childhood Educator

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.

See salaries and explore the career path for School Administrator

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.

See salaries and explore the career path for Occupational Therapist

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.

See salaries and explore the career path for Speech-Language Pathologist