Video Magnifier Instruction

Teaching Students with Visual Impairments

Video Magnifier Instruction

Many students who are blind or visually impaired will need instruction in strategies or the use of software to access a computer and navigate the computer without a mouse. Additionally, some students will need instruction in assistive technology devices that are specific to individuals who are blind or visually impaired including video magnifie and braille notetakers.

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By: Carmen Willings
teachingvisuallyimpaired.com

Video magnifiers are an ideal option when a student needs greater magnification and when contrast enhancement will assist the student in reading print. The video magnifier will allow access to regular print materials with the ability to enlarge and write on worksheets. The video magnifier also provides a larger field of view and gives the student a longer working distance when higher degrees of magnification is needed which is very beneficial when reading lengthier passages. This will prepare the student for adult life when most environmental, educational, and leisure reading materials will be available only in regular print.

A video magnifier (formally called a CCTV) provides electronic magnification through the use of a video camera that projects the image of what the camera is focused on, on a screen. Video magnifiers have traditionally been used for near viewing, but many video magnifiers now also have distance viewing capabilities. To make tracking and scanning easier, many video magnifiers come with a table (referred to as an XY table) that is movable in different directions. Some video magnifiers are small, portable and allow the user to carry the magnifier with them to view anything within reach including labels and packages at stores, menus, maps, medicine bottles, etc.

Video Magnifier Instruction

After receiving an assistive technology assessment, it may be determined that the student would benefit from an Electronic or Video Magnifier (sometimes called a CCTV) for near viewing. The student will need to be instructed on how to use the device properly. Even students who have previously learned how to use this device will need to be instructed in its use if they receive a new one with different features.

Skills the students will need to learn include:

The concept of "in focus" and how to bring the image into focus.
How to change the image size and then focus. Provide the students with materials of various print sizes and practice adjusting the image appropriately.
How to spot or locate an image on the page and then focus.
How to move the tray systematically, tracking left to right and then moving the tray away from oneself to move down the page. Some models do not include a tray and it can be purchased separately. The student may prefer simply moving the material instead of using the tray.
To follow a line of text, and then track down to locate the next line of text.
To use various features of the electronic magnifier and when it is adventitious to use those features.
To become accustomed to writing and drawing while looking at the monitor.
To care for the video magnifier and demonstrate safe use.

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