Professional Practice

by Carmen Willings
Revised April 9, 2020
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People who are blind or visually impaired are a very diverse group. Vision professionals must be prepared to meet the needs of all the individuals on their caseloads, determine eligibility, understand medical implications of visual impairments, perform evaluations and provide resources to families and teams. This can be a challenge as caseloads change from year to year as do the needs of the individuals they serve. It can be difficult to recall a wide range of information as well as locate resources and products for students. ​It is my hope that the information contained within this section will help you in your profession.

Vision Professionals

This section provides information on the differentiation of roles of the professionals who may work with individuals with visual impairments including Teachers of Students with Visual Impairments, Orientation, and Mobility Specialists, Clinical Low Vision Specialists, CATIS and Paraprofessionals/Braillists. Additionally, this section provides those interested in joining the vision field with the information needed for becoming a vision professional. Within these pages, learn more about: Become a Vision Professional, Professional Preparation Programs, Teacher of Students with Visual Impairments, Orientation & Mobility Specialist, Low Vision Specialist, Rehabilitation Specialists, CATIS, Paraprofessionals & Braille Transcribers

Professionalism

Professionals must maintain the professional practice, ethics and uphold standards. This section provides strategies for ongoing professional development and growing as a professional in our field. Within these pages, learn more about: Professional Development, Teacher Standards, Professional Ethics, Professional Organizations, Awards & Recognition in VI Field, APH Scholar Program

Instructional Planning

Although incidental learning and taking advantage of teachable moments is a critical instructional strategy, there must be planning and organization at the foundation of your instruction to be an effective teacher. These pages provide suggestions on planning for  instruction and providing team support. ​Within these pages, learn more about: VI Program Handbook, Caseload Analysis, Itinerant Teacher Tips, Year at a Glance​, Role of the Classroom Teacher, Simulation Activities

Professional Publications

It is not only important to obtain professional publications while you are taking your initial coursework, it is important to continue to research and add to your professional library. Expanding your knowledge base and staying current on best practice will help you excel in your career and positively impact the individuals you serve. These pages contain resources on publications specific to instructing individuals who are blind or visually impaired. Within these pages, learn more about: General VI Resource Books, CVI & MD Resources Books, 
Journal Resources

Resources to Support You in Teaching Students who are Blind or Visually Impaired

ECC Instructional Resources

eCourses

Purchase VI Job Posting

Braille Jewelry

Live Presentations & Workshops

Free Membership

Sign up for free membership to access the FREE downloadable handbooks and handouts on the Free Printable pages (Program printables, FVLMA & Service printables, and VI AT printables) 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. ​
Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It's not." ​ ​~ Dr. Seuss