Orientation & MobilityIt is critical for individuals with visual impairments to learn to move safely, efficiently and as independently as possible through all environments. Orientation and Mobility Specialists (O&M or COMS) will work directly with the individual to provide alternatives to using sight for safe and independent travel purposes. This section provides information on the different areas of O&M instruction.
|
|
|
During instruction with the O&M, the individual will be taught trailing techniques, search patterns, sighted guide techniques, use of vision for travel and orientation, use of the long cane, and independent travel in a variety of environments. Individuals are typically taught to use a long cane and techniques for using any remaining vision that they may have such as the use of optical devices (telescopes or monoculars). It is important to learn how to move safely in both familiar and unfamiliar environments. The O&M will assist the individual in the following areas.
Proper Guide TechniquesA student may at times move throughout their environment using a guide. Using proper guide techniques is important for the student to learn, but it is also important for those who will be with the student. This page provides guidelines in proper guide techniques.
Orient Student to EnvironmentIt’s essential to teach students who are blind or visually impaired to not only navigate safely from one location to another but know where they are. This page provides suggestions for helping to orient a student to their environment. It also provides suggestions for encouraging environmental awareness and exploration
Mobility SkillsOrientation and Mobility (O&M) is a critical area for students with visual impairments as it is essential for the student to learn to move safely and efficiently and as independently as possible through all environments. The O&M will teach the student to move safely and efficiently through their environment.
TravelStudents who are blind or visually impaired and will be independent travelers will need to learn strategies for accessing transportation, planning a route, and traveling. This page provides strategies and suggestions for teaching students skills in traveling independently.
Dog GuidesDog guides are assistance dogs trained to lead people who are blind or visually impaired. Dog guides can be helpful for many, but not appropriate for everyone. The person who uses the dog guide must have excellent orientation and mobility skills. This page provides information on who is a good candidate for a dog guide and the skills needed.
Student TransfersHelp students relate transitions to the time of day and how long the activity will be. Identify time on a clock and/or set a timer to denote time. Talk to the student before touching or lifting/moving him/her to transition. This will help the student anticipate change. Before you touch a student with a visual impairment, make sure he is aware of your presence. Try not to surprise the student by poking or sudden loud talking. This may frighten or startle him/her. For students that are not mobile, provide the student with warnings prior to transfers. Address the student by name, letting them know that they are to be “part of the action.” Even though words may not be understood, the sounds and your tone establish a relationship.
|
Free MembershipSign up for free membership to access the FREE downloadable handbooks and handouts on the Free Printables page along with access to the Goal Bank pages. Simply click on the Log In | Register link in the navigation bar. If you haven't joined yet, you will be prompted to create a password.
ECC Complete Set Bonus PagesPurchase the TVI's Guide to Teaching the ECC Complete Set and immediately unlock the pages within the ECC Complete Set Bonus including bonus printables, interactive sensory stories, interactive matching activities, interactive choice making activities, job task box activities and MORE! This is my way of continuing to support you and say "Thank you!" for choosing to purchase the Complete Set.
TVI's Guide Complete Set Bundle + BONUS Resources
$200.00
$100.00
Buy together and get BONUS resources! The TVI's Guide to Teaching the ECC Complete Set includes the following:
BONUS! Lotto Cards The LOTTO Cards Grab and Go Supplement includes 37 theme related unit cards along with activity suggestions that support activities within the TVI's Guide to Teaching the ECC. On My Way File Folder Cards Print and use these cards to represent locations the student may visit that are related to the current thematic unit. Use these with the On My Way File Folder Game outlined in the TVI's Guide to Teaching the ECC p. 27. NEW! Access to TVI's Guide Bonus Membership Pages Bonus pages include tutorials, printables, interactive sensory story downloads, and interactive choice making, matching and visual discrimination computer games (PowerPoint based interactive games), and job task activities. Note: All products are digital pdf downloads. Once you make your purchase you will be directed to an order confirmation page where you will find the download link. This download will also be included on the receipt sent to the email address you provide. The pdf download can be found directly under the order number. If you encounter any difficulty, please let me know and I can assist you. Once you purchase the complete set you will have immediate access to the bonus pages! *Please contact me if you need to purchase using a purchase order. I am happy to help guide you in the process of adding Teaching Students with Visual Impairments as an approved vendor for your school or program or you can visit the product support page for information on using a PO. Shop More Categories |
