How Virtual Instruction Is Used Today

Virtual instruction is now used in a more intentional and purposeful way.
  • Building Technology Skills. Students need to know how to join, participate in, and navigate virtual meetings. This includes using features such as mute/unmute, chat, screen sharing, reactions, and navigating different platforms (Zoom, Google Meet, Microsoft Teams).
  • Preparing for Real-World Expectations. Virtual meetings are common in college, the workplace, and daily life. Providing opportunities to practice these skills helps students feel more confident in future settings.
  • Supporting Learning During Remote Days. Virtual instruction continues to be used during scheduled online learning days or unexpected closures due to weather or other events. This allows instruction to continue without interruption.
  • Providing Flexible Support. Virtual sessions can be used for check-ins, direct instruction, collaboration with teams, or supporting students when in-person instruction is not possible.

Preparing Students for Virtual Instruction

Students benefit from direct instruction in how virtual platforms work.
  • Accessing Platforms. Students should know how to log in, locate links, and join meetings independently.
  • Using Features. Instruction should include how to mute and unmute, use chat, raise a hand, and follow along during screen sharing.
  • Assistive Technology Integration. Students should practice using screen readers, magnification, or braille displays within virtual platforms.
  • Troubleshooting. Students should learn basic problem-solving strategies such as what to do if audio is not working or if they are disconnected.

Planning for Virtual Instruction

Planning for virtual instruction is similar to in-person instruction but requires additional considerations for access.
  • Accessible Materials. Documents, presentations, and shared content should be accessible and compatible with assistive technology.
  • Clear Communication. Instructions should be provided verbally and in accessible formats so students understand expectations.
  • Structured Lessons. Virtual sessions should include clear routines, expectations, and opportunities for participation.
  • Collaboration with Teams. Communication with classroom teachers and families helps ensure consistency and access across settings.

Instructional Strategies

Many strategies developed during the pandemic continue to be effective.
  • Use of Real-Life Materials. Encouraging students to use items in their home environment supports meaningful learning.
  • Screen Sharing and Verbal Description. Teachers should describe visual information clearly and ensure students can follow along.
  • Short, Focused Sessions. Breaking instruction into smaller segments helps maintain attention and engagement.
  • Interactive Activities. Opportunities for discussion, problem-solving, and participation help keep students engaged.

Supporting Different Learners

Virtual instruction can be adapted to meet a range of needs.
  • Braille Learners. Students can continue reading and writing using a braille writer, refreshable braille display, or teacher-provided materials.
  • Students Using Low Vision Devices. Activities can be designed to encourage use of magnifiers or monoculars within the home environment.
  • Students with Additional Needs. Switch access, sensory activities, and simple routines can be incorporated with support from families.

Communication and Collaboration

Ongoing communication supports successful virtual instruction.
  • Families. Families often play a larger role during virtual learning and benefit from clear guidance and expectations.
  • Teachers and Teams. Collaboration helps ensure materials are accessible and instruction is consistent.
  • Documentation. Keeping track of communication, instruction, and progress supports continuity and accountability.

Moving Forward

Virtual instruction is no longer just a response to emergencies. It is one of many ways to support students and build independence. Providing students with opportunities to practice virtual skills helps them participate more fully in school, prepare for future environments, and access learning in a variety of situations. When used intentionally, virtual instruction can support communication, technology use, and independence in meaningful ways.

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Full Article List

Guide: Start Here
Tools (VI Basics)
Plan: Referrals & Eligibility
Referral & Eligibility​ ​Medical Vision Information 
FVLMALow Vision Evaluations
Other Evaluations
Plan: IEP Planning
Plan: Collaboration & Accessibility
​Collaboration Accessible Materials ​Classroom Access Instructional Access Technology Access ​Additional Supports Service Delivery Models  ​
Teach: Compensatory Skills
Compensatory Skills
Concept Development ​Alternative Communication ​Emergent Literacy ​Braille Code
​Beginning Braille ​ Braille Fluency & Comprehension  Writing Braille ​​​Nemeth Code Instruction 
​​​Tactile Graphics ​Print Concepts ​​Abacus  ​​Organization Skills​ ​​Study Skills ​​Time Management
Teach: Sensory Efficiency Skills
​Auditory & Listening Skills ​​Visual Efficiency Skills ​​Optical Device Use ​Tactile Readiness
Teach: Assistive Technology 
AT Overview ​AT Use & Maintenance Braille AT ​iOS Instruction Audio Access​ ​Video Magnifiers ​​​Basic Computer Use Computer Access ​Productivity
Teach: Social Skills
Social Skill Basics​
Non-Verbal Skills​​​​ Verbal Communication Skills Cooperative Skills Identity & Self-Awareness ​Interactions & Relationships Managing Challenges & Safety
Teach: Self Determination
Teach: Independent Living Skills
Personal Care ​Hygiene & Grooming ​Personal Health Mealtime Skills ​​​ Food Preparation
Household Skills Clothing Management ​Money & Budget Shopping & Consumerism Phone Use ​Safety & Emergency Preparedness ​​Services & Community Resources
Teach: Orientation & Mobility
Teach: Recreation & Leisure
Teach: Career & Vocational
Printables
Free Resources​ Premium Resource Library 
Teaching Strategy Printables 
​Premium Program Printables
​Premium FVLMA Printables
​ECC PrintablesCompensatory Skills Printables
Sensory Efficiency Printables
Assistive Technology Printables
Social Skills Printables
Self Determination Printables
Independent Living Printables
Recreation & Leisure Printables
Career & Vocational Printables
Evelyn Jane Stories 
Learn: Teaching Strategies & Planning
Learn: ​ECC Units
Beginning of the Year Units ​​Fall UnitsWinter Units ​​Winter Units ​​Spring UnitsAnytime Units
Learn: ​Interactive Activities
Learn: Recorded Presentations
Learn: Complete Set Bonus ​