Promoting Self-Determination for Students with Visual Impairments: A Review of the Literature

2019 ◽  
Vol 113 (2) ◽  
pp. 100-113
Author(s):  
Jennifer L. Cmar ◽  
Kasey Markoski
Keyword(s):  
Literature Review ◽  
Quality Indicators ◽  
Core Curriculum ◽  
Transition Planning ◽  
Low Vision ◽  
Single Case ◽  
Visual Impairments ◽  
Self Determination ◽  
Self Advocacy ◽  
Quasi Experimental

Introduction: Self-determination is a highly valued but under-researched component of the expanded core curriculum for students with visual impairments. In this study, the authors present results of a literature review on self-determination for children and youths with visual impairments (i.e., those who are blind or have low vision). Method: Self-determination studies were identified through searches of electronic databases for articles published from 2003 to 2016. Two researchers reviewed the articles and rated them in terms of quality indicators for research in special education. Results: Eleven articles, using correlational, qualitative, group experimental or quasi-experimental, and single-case research designs, met inclusion criteria for this literature review. Adherence to the quality indicators varied from 33% to 100%. Discussion: Students with visual impairments need age-appropriate opportunities to develop self-determination skills in school, home, and community settings. Short-term, focused programs and interventions may be promising methods for teaching self-determination skills; however, more research needs to be conducted to establish evidence-based practices in this area. Implications for practitioners: Practitioners can facilitate development of self-determination skills by supporting students in making decisions affecting their lives, encouraging involvement of students in the education and transition planning processes, and promoting self-advocacy.

Effective Self-Determination Practices for Students with Disabilities: Implications for Students with Visual Impairments

2019 ◽  
Vol 113 (2) ◽  
pp. 114-128
Author(s):  
Jennifer L. Cmar
Keyword(s):  
Students With Disabilities ◽  
Low Vision ◽  
Contextual Information ◽  
Visual Impairments ◽  
Individualized Education Program ◽  
Self Determination ◽  
Computer Assisted ◽  
Self Advocacy ◽  
Starting Point ◽  
Year 2000

Introduction: Given the lack of self-determination research and curricula focusing on children and youths with visual impairments (i.e., those who are blind or have low vision), the purpose of this article was to review the literature on effective self-determination practices for students with other disabilities for applicability to students with visual impairments. Method: A narrative review was conducted that focused on six self-determination practices for students with disabilities. Studies of the effectiveness of these practices that were published in the year 2000 or later were included in the review. Results: A total of 14 articles were identified that focused on the following interventions: Self-Determined Learning Model of Instruction, Whose Future Is It Anyway?, Check and Connect, Self-Advocacy Strategy, Self-Directed Individualized Education Program, and Computer-Assisted Instruction. The levels of evidence supporting each intervention varied from potential to moderate, with none falling into the strong category. Discussion: Although several studies included at least one student with visual impairment, their results were not disaggregated by disability category. As a result, the existing literature does not allow for any specific conclusions to be made about the effects of these interventions on students with visual impairments. Additional research that evaluates self-determination interventions among this population is warranted. Implications for practitioners: By providing descriptions of six self-determination interventions and research evidence (including contextual information) supporting each one, this study serves as a starting point for practitioners to identify curricula that may be used to promote self-determination among their students. For students with visual impairments to fully benefit from these interventions, preteaching and accommodations by teachers of students with visual impairments or orientation and mobility specialists is necessary.

scholarly journals Effectiveness of the Validation Method in Work Satisfaction and Motivation of Nursing Home Care Professionals: A Literature Review

2020 ◽  
Vol 18 (1) ◽  
pp. 201
Author(s):  
Iván Sánchez-Martínez ◽  
Raül Vilar ◽  
Javier Irujo ◽  
Duna Ulsamer ◽  
Dolors Cano ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Job Satisfaction ◽  
Literature Review ◽  
Older People ◽  
Single Case ◽  
Case Series ◽  
Nursing Home Care ◽  
Validation Method ◽  
People With Dementia ◽  
Cochrane Database ◽  
Quasi Experimental

The purpose of this study was to carry out a literature review on the effectiveness of the validation method (VM) in job satisfaction and motivation of care professionals working with older people in nursing homes. The review was carried out in specialised databases: Scopus, PsychINFO, PubMed, Web of Science (WOS), Google Scholar, Scielo, and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. 9046 results were obtained, out of which a total of 14 studies met the inclusion criteria: five quantitative, four qualitative, one single case series, two quasi-experimental and two mixed methods studies. The results of the analysed studies report that the VM can be an effective tool that facilitates communication and interaction in care, reducing levels of stress and job dissatisfaction among care professionals. The VM facilitates communication between professionals and older people with dementia, and improves the management of complex situations that may arise in care, directly influencing a reduction in work stress and increasing job satisfaction.

A Survey of Blind Orientation and Mobility Specialists about the Accommodations and Teaching Strategies They Use when Providing Orientation and Mobility Services

2021 ◽  
pp. 0145482X2110180
Author(s):  
Nora Griffin-Shirley ◽  
Laura Bozeman ◽  
The Nguyen ◽  
Vitalis Othuon ◽  
Anita Page ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Visually Impaired ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Low Vision ◽  
Visual Impairments ◽  
Teaching Techniques ◽  
Preparation Programs ◽  
Self Advocacy ◽  
Blind And Visually Impaired ◽  
Orientation And Mobility ◽  
Immersion Training

Introduction: The purpose of the study was to survey orientation and mobility (O&M) instructors who are blind concerning the identification of accommodations, teaching techniques, and resources to teach students with visual impairments (i.e., blindness or low vision). Methods: The study utilized an online survey via Qualtrics (2019) with 27 closed- and open-ended items to identify accommodations, teaching techniques, and resources needed. The survey was e-mailed to membership and certification organizations requesting O&M instructors who are blind to participate for 12 weeks. The participants were 15 O&M specialists, mostly male and Caucasian. Survey data were then analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results: Forty percentage of the participants reported that there were minimal standards that they had to demonstrate prior to their admittance into an O&M program. About one-fourth of the participants mentioned their program was modified because of their visual impairment. Eleven participants (73%) reported that their nonvisual instructional strategies and techniques were predominantly gained through their university programs or other visually impaired instructors (27%, n = 4). Discussion: Aspects of this study that are similar to the current literature are smaller faculty-to-student ratios for blindfold or simulation cane courses, accommodations used by participants, and suggestions for monitoring the safety of students. The results revealed the participants’ strong belief in the importance of immersion training, the use of the Structured Discovery Cane Travel (SDCT), nonvisual skills during O&M instruction, sleep shades, and students’ problem-solving abilities. Implication for practitioners: Although the participants had received SDCT immersion training, most personnel preparation programs approved by the Association for the Education and Rehabilitation of Blind and Visually Impaired do not use this method. For this reason, it is important for faculty to identify best teaching practices from among all programs and to integrate these practices into their curricula. Sharing best practices could strengthen all programs. Moreover, students with visual impairments should be taught early about self-advocacy and the ability to have helpful knowledge about one’s skills at a university and in the workplace.

The Expanded Core Curriculum Areas Experienced by Campers during Camp Abilities: A Qualitative Study

2021 ◽  
Vol 115 (1) ◽  
pp. 28-41
Author(s):  
Lauren J. Lieberman ◽  
Katie Ericson ◽  
Maria Lepore-Stevens ◽  
Karen Wolffe
Keyword(s):  
Focus Group ◽  
Independent Living ◽  
Core Curriculum ◽  
Low Vision ◽  
Visual Impairments ◽  
Structured Learning ◽  
Focus Group Discussions ◽  
Group Discussions ◽  
Expanded Core Curriculum ◽  
Children With Visual Impairments

Introduction: The expanded core curriculum (ECC) refers to the generally accepted nine areas of instruction that children who are visually impaired (i.e., those who are blind or have low vision) must learn through explicit instruction in order to live independently as adults. Children with visual impairments must experience immersion in the ECC in their daily lives throughout the year rather than only being taught these skills during the school year by teachers of students with visual impairments. Therefore, this research was undertaken to determine whether athletes attending Camp Abilities, a sports camp for children with visual impairments, experienced new ECC skills or practiced previously learned ECC skills and if so, how. Method: Researchers chose to interview 10 athletes from a purposeful sample of 30 children who had previously attended camp. The 10 coaches who worked with these athletes one-on-one participated in focus group discussions at the end of the weeklong camp. In addition, all athletes and coaches attending camp listed their thoughts on posters describing how all athletes attending experienced areas of the ECC. Finally, researchers documented observations of athletes’ opportunities to practice ECC content throughout the weeklong program. Researchers transcribed interviews and focus group discussions and reviewed for themes relating to ECC areas that were part of the students’ lived experience during camp. Results: Three major conclusions emerged from reviews of the interviews, discussion group transcripts, posters, and observations: (1) athletes and coaches were initially unclear about what the ECC areas were and how the athletes experienced the ECC in their everyday academic and home activities; (2) following clarification of the ECC areas, the athletes came to recognize how they learned and applied ECC skills during the camp experience; and (3) a more structured instructional approach to applying the ECC at camp may further enhance their experiences. Discussion: The youth participants were not able to list and describe all of the ECC areas when interviewed at the end of camp. However, adult participants (coaches) listed most ECC areas and described how athletes experienced the ECC during camp in their focus group discussions. Once researchers clarified ECC areas for athletes, they identified self-determination, recreation and leisure, social interaction, and independent living as the areas of the ECC most often experienced during camp. Implications for practitioners: Practitioners need to pay attention to structured learning of the ECC areas and consider articulating for students which areas overlap in their everyday lives, so that they are fully aware of the multiple skills they are acquiring. Camp Abilities is a functional way for youths with visual impairments to experience all areas of the ECC.

Divergent Thinking: The Performance of Students with Visual Impairments on Abstract and Scenario-Based Tasks and Their Correlates

2020 ◽  
Vol 114 (4) ◽  
pp. 301-314
Author(s):  
Kim T. Zebehazy ◽  
Rachel C. Weber ◽  
Meagan Murphy ◽  
Aisha Ghani
Keyword(s):  
Problem Solving ◽  
Divergent Thinking ◽  
Core Curriculum ◽  
Low Vision ◽  
Visual Impairments ◽  
Real Life ◽  
Strong Relationship ◽  
Crucial Component ◽  
Technology Instruction ◽  
Practice Opportunities

Introduction: Divergent thinking is a crucial component of effective problem-solving. This study investigated the divergent thinking of students with visual impairments (i.e., blindness or low vision) in three countries and explored the correlates of their performance on two tasks. Methods: A sample of 52 students with visual impairments completed two divergent thinking tasks, one traditional Alternate Uses task, and one scenario-based task created for this study. Each student’s teacher of students with visual impairments completed a questionnaire containing demographic, curriculum, and student characteristics. Results: Of the correlates examined, teacher-rated academic independence, working on grade level, number of expanded core curriculum (ECC) areas of instruction currently received, and ongoing receipt of assistive technology instruction were significantly related to task performance. Discussion: Findings demonstrate the strong relationship between real-life problem-solving, divergent thinking, and academic functioning in students with visual impairments. Further investigation is needed about the relationship between aspects of problem-solving instruction and student outcomes as they relate to divergent thinking. Implications for practitioners: Given the connection of divergent thinking to overall problem-solving ability, teachers should assess these skills in students. Using similar scenario-based real-life tasks, they can also incorporate practice opportunities for divergent thinking within ECC instruction.

Applying the Foundational Concepts from Early Intervention to Services Provided to Young Children with Visual Impairments: A Literature Review

2018 ◽  
Vol 112 (3) ◽  
pp. 225-238 ◽  
Author(s):  
Mindy S. Ely ◽  
Michaelene M. Ostrosky
Keyword(s):  
Early Intervention ◽  
Adult Learning ◽  
Literature Review ◽  
Visual Impairment ◽  
Low Vision ◽  
Visual Impairments ◽  
Natural Environments ◽  
Infants And Toddlers ◽  
Early Intervention Services ◽  
Family Centered

Introduction The foundational concepts of early intervention are: family-centered and relationship-based practices, natural environments, child learning, adult learning, and quality team practices (Pletcher & Younggren, 2013). In this literature review, the authors consider the application of these concepts to services provided to families of infants and toddlers with visual impairments (that is, those with blindness or low vision) by vision professionals. Methods Three databases (ERIC, ProQuest, and PsychINFO) were used to search for articles from 1997 to 2016, focusing specifically on infants and toddlers with visual impairments. Twenty-seven articles met the criteria for inclusion in the review. Results Family-centered practices are valued by virtually all researchers in the field of visual impairment. Practices that promote parent-child relationships are especially important, given the specialized needs for early communication and the development of strong social relationships. Concerning the natural environment, commentators from the field of visual impairment are critical of federal definitions of natural environments; however, a broader definition of natural environments is supported. Child and adult learning are viewed as important for the promotion of positive outcomes for children and families who receive early intervention services, as is practice that promotes the formation of quality teams. Discussion The foundational concepts of early intervention (Pletcher & Younggren, 2013) have applicability to professionals working with infants and toddlers with visual impairments and their families. Research supports these concepts as beneficial in achieving positive child and family outcomes. Implications for practitioners Pre-service and in-service training programs for visual impairment should include early intervention principles and concepts in a manner that prepares the workforce to address the unique needs of this population.

Effective Practices for Teaching Self-Determination

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Dalun Zhang ◽  
Yi-Fan Li ◽  
Melina Cavazos
Keyword(s):  
Students With Disabilities ◽  
Instructional Practices ◽  
Planning Process ◽  
Transition Planning ◽  
Self Determination ◽  
Educational Outcome ◽  
Individuals With Disabilities ◽  
Self Advocacy ◽  
Evidence Based Practices ◽  
Choice Making

Self-determination refers to a set of skills that helps individuals with disabilities control their life and achieve better inclusive outcomes. In special education, self-determination is often conceptualized as an educational outcome, which recognizes the important role that education plays in the development of student self-determination skills. Consequently, a number of educational practices have been developed to teach students with disabilities these essential skills. Some of the practices focus on helping students to acquire and maintain these skills; others focus on developing a conducive environment that allows and encourages individuals with disabilities to apply and exercise self-determination skills. Research has provided empirical evidence to support the need for teaching self-determination skills to students with disabilities. A number of evidence-based practices have been recommended for schools and parents to use in teaching these skills to students with disabilities. Some of the strategies focus on creating conducive environments that provide opportunities for individuals with disabilities to apply and exercise self-determination skills; others provide suggestions to families regarding what they can do to promote self-determination. A particular focus is on instructional practices because of the strong link between education and self-determination. Some popular instructional practices include teaching choice-making, self-management instruction, involving students in the transition planning process, and teaching self-determination skills through a self-determination curriculum such as the ChoiceMaker Curriculum, Steps to Self-Determination, Whose Future Is It Anyway?, Next S.T.E.P. Curriculum, Self-Advocacy Strategy, and Self-Determined Learning Model for Instruction (SDMLI).

Bridging the Gap between Physical Therapy and Orientation and Mobility in Schools: Using a Collaborative Team Approach for Students with Visual Impairments

2017 ◽  
Vol 111 (6) ◽  
pp. 495-510 ◽  
Author(s):  
Joanne Szabo ◽  
Rajiv K. Panikkar
Keyword(s):  
Physical Therapy ◽  
Core Curriculum ◽  
Physical Therapists ◽  
Low Vision ◽  
Visual Impairments ◽  
Team Approach ◽  
Team Members ◽  
Orientation And Mobility ◽  
Specialized School ◽  
Common Goals

This article explores transdisciplinary collaboration and role-release strategies that would allow physical therapists and orientation and mobility (O&M) specialists to more effectively support students with visual impairments (that is, those who are blind or have low vision) and additional disabilities with their expanded core curriculum (ECC) goals. Through examining public and specialized school special education documentation for 20 school-aged students, the authors seek to better understand current practice patterns of both O&M and physical therapy professionals who are working with students who are visually impaired with additional disabilities, and suggest ways in which educational team members from both disciplines can work together toward common goals for their students.

scholarly journals Occupational Therapist Role in Post-Secondary Education Transition Program: Emphasis on Self-Advocacy Skills

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
◽  
Nikki Vorhees
Keyword(s):  
High School ◽  
Secondary Education ◽  
Postsecondary Education ◽  
Transition Planning ◽  
Transition Program ◽  
Self Determination ◽  
Post Secondary Education ◽  
Self Advocacy ◽  
Post Secondary ◽  
Transition From High School

It is becoming increasingly important for individuals to obtain post-secondary education in order to gain employment (Alverson et al., 2019; Chandroo et al., 2018). This increased importance to attend post-secondary education makes it imperative for students who are graduating from high school to be fully prepared for the transition to post-secondary education (Rothman et al., 2008). The transition from high school to post-secondary education is difficult for any individual. However, it is even more difficult for students with learning differences, as they tend to have problems in the areas of social skills, communication, problem solving, self-advocacy, and executive functioning (Alverson et al., 2019). These are critical skills required for successful post-secondary transition planning. This indicates a necessary role for OTs to contribute to students’ transition planning as OTs are fully equipped to support the development of skills such as self-advocacy and self-determination (Angell et al., 2019; Spencer et al., 2017). However, currently, there is a limited number of OTs working in transition planning for postsecondary education (Dirette, 2019). The purpose of this capstone project is to develop an occupational therapy-based transition program from high school to post-secondary education. The program will focus on social, self-advocacy, and self-determination skills to help the students transition from high school to post-secondary education as smoothly as possible.

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