Compensatory Skills
Carmen Willings | teachingvisuallyimpaired.com | February 21, 2026
Compensatory skills are the tools, strategies, and techniques that enable students who are blind or visually impaired to access information, communicate effectively, and participate fully in academic and daily activities. Because many skills are typically learned through visual observation, students often require direct instruction in alternative methods for gathering, processing, and expressing information. These skills include concept development, communication systems, braille and print literacy, mathematics tools, organization, and study strategies. When taught systematically, compensatory skills provide the foundation for academic success, independence, and lifelong learning.