Semester Sixth V: B.S. in Special Education University of Karachi

Major –V: VISUAL IMPAIRMENT: An Introduction

Course Code: 552

Credit Hours: 03

 

COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

This course is designed to help students to understand the concept of visual impairment, its definition, classification, causes and prevention. Students will focus on the development of teaching and programming skills required for the teaching of children with visual impairment.

 

OBJECTIVES

1. What definition is used for students with visual impairment
   
2. How are levels of visual impairment differentiated
   
3. What are the primary characteristics of students with visual impairment
   
4. What instructional approaches and teaching tactics are appropriate for students with visual impairment
   

 

UNIT – 1:    Introduction

1. Definition and Classification
   
   1. Legal Definition
      
      1. Low Vision
         
      2. Legally Blind
         
   2. Educational Definition
      
2. Measurement of Vision
   
3. Causes of Visual Impairment
   

 

UNIT – 2:    Function of the Eye

1. Anatomy of the Eye
   
2. Physiology of the Eye
   

UNIT – 3:    Psychological and Behavioral Characteristics

1. Language Development
   
2. Intellectual Ability
   
3. Mobility
   
4. Academic Achievement
   
5. Social Adjustment
   

UNIT – 4:    Educational Considerations

1. Braille
   
2. Use of Remaining Sight
   
3. Listening Skills and Verbalism
   
4. Mobility Training
   
5. Information Communication Tools (ICT's Tools)
   
6. Service Delivery Models
   

UNIT – 5:    Transition

1. Independent Living
   
2. Employment
   

 

Recommended Books

 

1. Hallahan, D.P.. and Kauffman, J.M. (1997)
   Exceptional Learners: Introduction to Special Education: Boston: Allyn and Bacon.
   
2. Heward, W.L. and Orlansky, M.D. (1992) Exceptional Children: An Introductory Survey of Special Education. New York: MacMillan Publishing Company
   
3. Smith T.E., et al. (1995) Teaching Students with Special Needs in Inclusive Settings. Boston: Allyn and Bacon.
   
4. Ysseldyke, J.E. and Algozzine, B. (1995) Special Eduation: A Practical Approach for Teachers. Boston: Houghton Mifflin Company.