Course objectives

The aim is to penetrate deeper into the issue of working with people with visual impairments. Part of the course will be interactive workshops during which students will work with assistive devices using experiential methods, learning to read and write Braille, penetrating into the possibility of leisure activities. The theoretical concept of the course is built on current findings of opthalmopedia so that the students cannot understand the essence, capabilities and limitations stemming from visual impairment.

Learning outcomes

Professional knowledge:
- students will acquire and demonstrate knowledge of basic terminology and the establishment of special educational discipline of opthalmopedia
- students can describe basic severe visual impairment and the degrees of visual impairment
- students can characterize the mental development of individuals with visual impairment in individual age periods age with their characteristic milestones
- students are familiars with the specific educational opportunities, counselling services and leisure activities
Professional skills:
- students will learn the basics of Braille and spatial orientation - students can work with assistive devices, know their possibilities and limits
- students will try typhlographic work, they will be able to create a basic embossed image, while avoiding the errors often made by lay typhlographics
General qualification:
- students will be qualified not only to use their knowledge and skills for specific work with visually impaired individuals of various ages, but also to better respond to their needs
- students can propose activities and assistive devices according to the individual clients’ options; at the same time, the methods of the course will encourage the development of critical thinking, creativity and the students' ability to make decisions independently and responsibly

Teaching methods

direct teaching, consultation, self-study

Assessment methods

Handing in the assigned task (creating an aid for the visually impaired), reading Braille with visual support. Oral exam.