VI Assistive Technology

The majority of persons who are blind or visually impaired will need some form of assistive technology in order access print on paper as well as electronic forms. Assistive technology (AT) also provides a means for producing written information. Here is a list of types of Assistive Technology a person with a visual impairment may use.

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Non-Optical Low Vision Devices

There are a variety of non-optical devices will help persons with low vision to access print and complete activities visually. This page discusses different devices for accessing print.

Low/Medium Tech Devices for Tactual Learners

There are a variety of low and medium technology devices that allow persons who are blind to access and produce braille, complete math activities and activities of daily living tactually. This page details some Low/Medium Tech devices for tactual learners.

Optical Devices for Near Viewing

Following a low vision evaluation, a person may be prescribed optical devices for near viewing that will allow them to access standard size print. This page provides a list of devices that may be used by a person for near viewing.

Optical Devices for Distance Viewing

Following a low vision evaluation, a person may be prescribed optical devices for distance viewing that will allow them to access information and print at a distance. This page provides a list of devices that may be used by a person for distance viewing.

Video Magnifiers

Video magnifiers (formally called CCTV's) are a non-optical means of accessing print and information at near. Some devices have distance capabilities as well. This page provides information about video magnifiers.

Screen Enlargement & Readers

Some persons will be able to access information by simply using the internal magnification built in to the computer. Other persons will require additional amounts of magnification or screen reading software to access information. This page discusses options.

Braille Technology

High tech braille devices are available for persons who are blind or visually impaired to access and produce braille. This page discusses the different types of high tech braille equipment.

Tactile Graphics Technology

The ability to read tactual graphics and charts is essential as part of a braille person’s literacy program. This page provides suggestions for materials and devices for creating tactual graphics.

Auditory Access Devices

This page discusses different devices for accessing auditory books as well as materials and software to access information in auditory format.

Braillewriter Repair

The Perkins Braillewriter is a GREAT tool, but as with any device, it can break down and need repair. It can be very difficult to find someone who has experience repairing braillewriters. Perkins has put together some videos that will walk you through the repair process. This page provides links to the various videos.

Assistive Technology Forms

Sign up for free membership to access the FREE VI AT forms and references on the Free VIAT Printables page. 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. Below are just a few examples of the free VI AT Printables.

Decision Guide for Electronic Braillewriter

Selecting the Right AT On-Demand Webinar

Cover slide of Strategies & Tips for Selecting the Right AT

Are you overwhelmed by the process of selecting assistive technology for your students? This presentation will encompass the process and steps of selecting the right assistive technology for students who are blind or visually impaired using the SETT framework. Key points covered in this presentation include identification of the current problem; consideration of current skills; understanding unique visual and learning needs; awareness of AT for VI; AT equipment considerations; the process of building a toolkit; instructional strategies; and next steps.

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Free Membership

Sign 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

Purchase 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.