Blind Students/Students with Other Disabilities

Society Business and Career
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So in my 7 years of University teaching, this is the first time that I have a blind student in my class, and I’m wondering what I can do to accommodate her to the maximum.

I was thinking about emailing her to ask if I can do anything to help her - but I’m not sure if that is a good option. I’m not sure how to approach her without being interpreted as being commiserating. On the contrary, I have great respect for students with disabilities who overcome tremendous challenges that are beyond our comprehension (there are just so many things we take for granted).

Thinking about this situation has made me aware of my reliance on visuals and graphics that I use pervasively in the classroom… and I’m making it a point to explain visual aids more explicitly now than I used to before.

What else can I do though? what would you do? has anyone had a friend or colleague with similar impairment? suggestions/advice welcome.

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Re: Blind Students/Students with Other Disabilities

Just treat him just like a normal person that you can do best for him

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Re: Blind Students/Students with Other Disabilities

I know that one of our class mate was deaf, and our Professor asked for someone to volunteer to share their notes with her. (and later did offer extra credit to those students)

Now for someone with Blindness...maybe explaining the visual parts of your presentation a bit more then usual would be helpful. Maybe asking her later after class if there is any other way you can help her be more comfortable. There is a product that converts the audio into written text on the computer. I heard a Professor talk about it. I don't know if she uses that..maybe it would be helpful to her.