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EDSP 650: Characteristics of Students with Visual Impairments

Credit Hours: (2)

Provides an overview of the characteristics of and services to persons with visual impairments, including the impact of visual impairment on infants’ and children’s growth and development, child and adolescent emotional and social development, and family interaction patterns. Considers the educational, conceptual, psycho-social, and physical implications of a visual impairment. Course delivered online.

 

Detailed Description of Content of Course

This course as described above will include the following topics:

· Historical Perspectives

· Basic anatomy of the eye and conditions

· Implications of Visual Impairment

· Social Skills/Self-concept

· Educational Programming

· Role of the Vision Teacher

· Overview of assessment, IEP, and collaboration

· Students with VI and multiple disabilities

· Modifying Instruction

· Assistive Technology & Independent Living Resources

 

Detailed Description of Conduct of Course

· Course delivered online.

· Class lecture, discussion, and participation via synchronous web-conferences or videoconferences

· Video and other relevant interactive media presentations

· Study and independent research

· Case Studies and other application activities, including regular assignments

 

Goals and Objectives of the Course

This course is part of the Virginia Department of Education approved licensure program in Visual Impairment and is offered through the Statewide Training Consortium in Visual Impairment.  

Goals, objectives, and assignments in this class address NCATE Standard 1c Professional and Pedagogical Knowledge and Skills. The following CEC and VDOE standard areas area also addressed.

• Council for Exceptional Children [CEC]Common Core standards in Standard #1: Foundations (CC 1) for all Entry-level Special Education Teachers
• Council for Exceptional Children [CEC]Common Core standards in Standard #2: Development and Characteristics of Learners (CC2)
• CEC Knowledge and Skill Base for All Entry-Level Special Education Teachers of Students with Visual Impairment (VI) Standard #1 Foundations
• CEC Knowledge and Skill Base for All Entry-Level Special Education Teachers of Students with Visual Impairment (VI) Standard #2 Development and Characteristics of Learners
• Virginia  Department of Education Teacher [VDOE]Licensure Standards  
• Professional studies requirements in Human Growth and Development
• Visual Impairment requirements in Foundations. Understanding of the characteristics of individuals with disabilities

Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:  

• Demonstrate knowledge of the history of the education of persons with a visual impairment.
• Demonstrate knowledge of the terminology used in the field of working with persons with a visual disability.
• Demonstrate knowledge of the current trends in education of persons with a visual impairment.
• Demonstrate knowledge of the educational settings which provide education of persons with a visual impairment.
• Demonstrate knowledge of a variety of local, state, and national resources for services to persons with a visual impairment.
• Demonstrate basic knowledge of basic anatomy of the eye and eye diseases.
• Demonstrate knowledge of the impact of a visual impairment on infants and children’s growth and physical, conceptual, academic, vocational, social and emotional development.
• Demonstrate knowledge of the effect visual impairment has on family interactions.
• Demonstrate knowledge of the legal rights of a person with a visual impairment.
• Demonstrate knowledge of the basic techniques for adapting and modifying instruction for a student with a visual disability.
• Demonstrate knowledge of the need for specialized instruction for certain persons with a visual disability, to include orientation and mobility, low vision aids, and technology.

 

Assessment Measures

1. Written exam

2. Participation in at least four on-line discussions and other postings related to course content

3. Case study analysis

4. Reflective paper on the media portrayal of persons with visual impairments

 

Other Course Information

None

 

Review and Approval

2/27/09        New Course            Elizabeth Altieri

May 7, 2014