Understanding low vision
Low vision affects each person in unique ways. Discuss learning and accessibility preferences with students and whānau, and areas they would value support.
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Definition
Vision is a complex sense. It is made up of the ability to see contrasts and sharpness of detail. It also helps with location of objects in the environment.
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People with low vision have reduced vision, even when they use the best possible corrective contact lenses or glasses.
Types of low vision
In New Zealand, vision impairment is known as low vision.
Low vision may be:
- congenital (present from birth)
- hereditary (genetic, congenital or later onset)
- acquired (through accident, illness or disease).
Influence on learning
A student’s low vision can have an impact on their learning across the curriculum, but it very much depends on the condition, their wellbeing, and the context.
Matt, a secondary student with low vision, describes how he makes school work. He reflects on his use of technology, effective partnerships with teachers, and the need for self-advocacy skills.
Areas students may find tiring or challenging without support include:
- processing visual information
- accessing materials, especially print
- learning social and daily living skills
- navigating new or changing classroom layouts
- organising personal belongings and school work.
Key actions to support learning
Teachers may support students through:
- adjusting learning activities, teaching strategies and assessment.
- clear verbal explanations and instructions.
- use of technologies.
- changes to the physical learning environment.
- helping students to engage with peers and to stay healthy and safe.
Technologies commonly used
Technologies and digital materials enable students with low vision access to education alongside their peers.
|
Low tech |
High tech |
|---|---|
| Dark pencils and felt-tipped pens | Laptops, iPads, cell phones |
| Dark lined pads and exercise books | CCTV |
| Adjustable stands for devices | Image capturing devices such as digital cameras or cell phones |
| Adjustable copy holders with line markers | Magnification software |
| Hand-held magnifiers or monoculars | Screen reading software |
| Writing and reading guides | Voice recognition software |
| Slope boards and desks | MP3 players |
| Angle-poise or clip-on desk lamps | GPS |
Useful resources
Glossary of Eye Conditions
Comprehensive glossary of eye conditions with links to further resources.
Publisher: American Foundation for the Blind
Classroom adjustments (podcast)
Classroom adjustments (podcast)
Publisher: Australian Government, NCCD
Next steps
Return to the guide “Low vision and learning”
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How to use this site
Guide to Index of the guide: Low vision and learning
Understand:
- Understanding low vision
Strategies for action:
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Identify needs and how to provide supportShow suggestions for Identify needs and how to provide support
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Key areas to supportShow suggestions for Key areas to support
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Helpful classroom strategies years 1-8Show suggestions for Helpful classroom strategies years 1-8
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Helpful classroom strategies years 9-13Show suggestions for Helpful classroom strategies years 9-13
