Clarification Regarding the Choice of Braille as a Reading and Writing Medium
By Hatlen, Phil; See/Hear, Vol. 6, No. 1Publication Date: Winter 2001
Article discusses the author’s beliefs regarding the choice of Braille or standard print as a learning medium for students with low vision. The author divides most students who are blind or have low vision into four categories according to the type of media they use in learning: (1) print readers, who have the visual acuity to read standard or large print quickly and with accuracy, (2) Braille readers, who are either completely blind or have light perception only, (3) a group that faces educational challenges peripheral to a visual impairment, who will have difficulty with both print and Braille, and (4) children who are visually impaired, yet have enough vision to perform some tasks and activities visually. Some parents and professionals will want students in this group to learn Braille, while others will advocate for full use of remaining vision. There are tests that can be used to determine the appropriate medium, such as the Learning Media Assessment, which is required to be administered to all students who are blind or visually impaired in Texas. Parents are encouraged to consider the Learning Media Assessment, and to discuss any problems with the child’s teacher.
Published by:
Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired (Web Site: http://www.tsbvi.edu )
Link to text: http://www.tsbvi.edu/Outreach/seehear/winter01/reading.htm
