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Date
01 July 2025
Link
inclusive.tki.org.nz/guides/low-vision-and-learning/ask-the-student-what-will-help-and-consider-a-learner-profile

Ask the student what will help and consider a learner profile

Suggestion for implementing the strategy ‘Identifying needs and strengths, and accessing support’

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What to include in a learner profile

What to include in a learner profile

Discuss with the student and their whānau what to include in a learner profile.

  • Important people
  • Cultural connections and experiences
  • Languages spoken
  • Things the student is good at
  • Memorable life experiences
  • How they like to unwind and relax
  • Likes and interests
  • Dislikes and things they avoid
  • How they like to learn and what helps
  • Things that make it hard for them to learn
  • What they do when they need help

Build the learner profile over time

Build the learner profile over time

Learner profiles can help school staff build relationships with ākonga and their whānau, understand their perspectives and design learning to meet student needs.

Considerations for learner profiles.

  • Provide multiple opportunities and methods to develop the profile.
  • Prioritise information from students by using effective communication techniques, for example, point to select, or communication boards.
  • Revisit the profile on a regular basis to add depth and new insights.
  • Use a range of input methods such as conversations, observations, formal reviews and regular surveys.
  • Encourage students to understand their needs and preferences as a learner.
  • Act on information that is shared so students can see how their voice helps you design learning experiences that work for them.

Useful resources

Useful resources

Website

Student develops technology and self-advocacy skills while learning about her visual needs

An 11-year-old with low vision creates a PowerPoint presentation to explain her eye condition.

Publisher: BLENNZ: Blind and Low Vision Education Network NZ

Visit website

Developing learner profiles

Developing learner profiles

Read time: 3 min

This document provides general support and guidance when developing a learner profile. It includes prompts and questions, alongside purpose and benefits for students.

Download PDF (211 KB)

About me

About me

This learner profile template is a companion to "Developing learner profiles". It is an interactive PDF with questions for students to answer.

Download PDF (596 KB)

Next steps

More suggestions for implementing the strategy “Identify needs and how to provide support”:

Return to the guide “Low vision and learning”

11459 [Low-vision-2-002.jpg]

Low vision and learning

How to use this site

Guide to Index of the guide: Low vision and learning

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This is a Ministry of Education initiative​​​​​​​. We shape an education system that delivers equitable and excellent outcomes.

This information was downloaded/printed from the Ministry of Education's website "Inclusive Education". Except where otherwise noted it is Crown Copyright 2018.

Information on the Inclusive Education website is regularly updated so we recommend you check the website version of this information to ensure it remains current.