Effectively Accommodating Low Vision Students

Handouts Media

Presented at 8:00am in Meadowbrook I/II on Wednesday, November 16, 2016.

Speaker(s)

• Jenna Atkinson, Coordinator of Assistive Technology, Utah Valley University
• Laura Loree, Counselor, UVU

Session Details

• Length of Session: 1-hr
• Format:
• Expertise Level: Intermediate
• Type of session: General Conference

Summary

Working with low-vision students is different than accommodating a blind student. Presenters will discuss the unique challenges low-vision students face, suggestions for accommodations and what counselors and AT specialists should ask in an initial intake.

Abstract

Blind and low-vision students are often lumped into the same category but the challenges to each are unique. Often, accommodating a low-vision student can be more difficult. In this session, presenters will discuss the unique challenges that low-vision students face in the classroom and testing centers. Presenters include an assistive technology coordinator, counselor, and a department director who can all speak to the different aspects of accommodating low vision students. Each will speak from their perspective and the issues that they each need to be aware of. Topics will include alternative format, emerging assistive technologies, and how to include other areas of campus and outside agencies in this discussion.

Keypoints

1. The differences between accommodating a low vision and blind student.
2. What high and low tech options are available for low vision students
3. Understanding how various areas and outside agencies have to work together

Disability Areas

Vision

Topic Areas

Alternate Format, Assistive Technology

Speaker Bio(s)

Jenna Atkinson

Jenna is the Coordinator of Assistive Technology at Utah Valley University. She has worked in Accessibility Services for the last five years. While pursuing a BS in English & Literature she served as the Editor-in-Chief on a department publication. Her understanding of written language and document structure has been an asset in overhauling the alternative text program at UVU. She intends to pursue a Masterâ s degree in disability services in the future.

Laura Loree

Laura is an Accessibility Services Counselor at Utah Valley University. In recent years, she has been actively involved in the effective delivery of assistive technology services as well as electronic instructional material and web compliance discussions at UVU. She has a passion for technology in education and 25 years of experience working with individuals with disabilities. She holds a Master of Arts in Education: Counseling from Redlands University and a certificate in Assistive Technology Applications from California State University, Northridge.

Handout(s)

• effectively-accommodating-low-vision-students (pptx)