Practice Job Skills in Classroom

By: Carmen Willings
teachingvisuallyimpaired.com
​Updated May 24, 2024
The ability to perform classroom chores or jobs will prepare the student for being a contributing member of the classroom, homes, and community. It also lays a foundation for job-related skills and employment later in life. It does take more time, and generally takes a lot of patience when instructing a student in these skills, but it will pay off over time and can lead to a self-confident, organized adult. Incorporating classroom chores or jobs into students' routines not only builds job skills but helps teach responsibility. ​

Role-playing and Drama

Encourage students to engage in role-playing or create dramas describing the jobs they have observed. This activity allows them to explore different job roles, interactions with customers, superiors, and coworkers, enhancing their understanding of workplace dynamics and communication skills.

Measuring and Recording Mastery

Have students measure and record their mastery of specific activities they have learned, such as collating papers or alphabetizing student work. Encourage them to start a list of skills learned, which can later be incorporated into their resume. This practice helps them recognize their accomplishments and build a sense of achievement.

Setting Personal Improvement Goals

Guide students in setting goals for personal improvement in mastered activities. For instance, if a student can perform a task but needs to enhance accuracy or speed, discuss the importance of efficiency and identify strategies for improvement. This process instills a mindset of continuous learning and self-improvement.

Inclusive Approach

Recognize that classroom chores provide valuable experiences with real objects, aiding visually impaired students in developing awareness of various object features. Ensure that tasks are accessible and adaptable for students with visual impairments, incorporating tactile cues or assistive technology as needed.

Basic Chores and Classroom Chore Chart

Integrate basic chores into daily classroom routines, such as hanging coats, organizing materials, and sorting recycling. Create a classroom chore chart with a variety of tasks, allowing students to take turns being responsible. This fosters a sense of ownership and participation while promoting a collaborative classroom environment.

ECC Instruction

Teaching the ECC
Thematic units
Compensatory Skills
Concept Development Functional Skills
Alternative Communication Emergent Literacy Braille Slate & Stylus
Tactile Graphics Nemeth Braille Code
Access Classes Cranmer Abacus Organization & Study Skills Time Management Listening Skills Instruction 
VI Assistive Technology
Social Skills
Self Determination
Sensory Efficiency
Independent Living
Orientation & Mobility
Recreation & Leisure
Career & Vocational