A Resource Guide to

Assistive Technology for

Students with Visual Impairment

Lisa R. Tebo, M.Ed., OTR/L, ATP

This project was completed in fulfillment of the capstone project
requirement in the Graduate College at Bowling Green State University
 Introduction
Students with visual impairments face unique challenges in the educational environment. Not
only must they be able to access text information across all curricular areas, but they also need to
be able to participate fully in instruction that is often rich with visual content. Assistive
technology is one way of supporting them in that process.

Consideration of assistive technology by the Individualized Education Program (IEP) team is

required for all students with disabilities under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act
(IDEA), and when deemed appropriate, it must be provided and supported by the local education
agency. This is to ensure that students with disabilities have the tools necessary to fully access
and participate in the curriculum, with the greatest possible level of independence. Even more
important, use of assistive technology helps prepare students for independent living, vocational
pursuits, or higher education following graduation from high school!

“Assistive technology” refers to a range of tools, devices, and strategies that allow a student to
accomplish a task that they would otherwise be unable to do, or would have difficulty
accomplishing effectively. Assistive technology can be simple or complex. Examples of low
tech tools for students with visual impairments might include enlarged text or raised line paper,
while high tech tools may encompass digital tools that “read” to the student, connect to a braille
display, or even incorporate GPS.

The term “visual impairment” describes a broad range of visual abilities and needs. Because
each child is unique, what works well for one student may not work well for another. Selection
of assistive technology should be the result of a team process that takes into consideration
feedback from family, educators, paraprofessionals, and the student. It is important to remember
that “high-tech” is not always the best solution for a student. Selected tools should reflect the
student’s unique strengths and needs, the activities he needs to be able to accomplish, and the
environment in which he will be working. A student’s need for assistive technology will likely
change and evolve throughout his or her education, and in most cases, no single tool will meet all
of a student’s needs.

The purpose of this resource guide is to provide an introduction to the types of assistive
technology that may benefit students with visual impairments. Specific products and their
features are not described here. Instead, a general overview of tools will help raise your
awareness so that you are able to determine what tools to investigate further. A list of additional
resources and vendors is provided at the end of this guide if you’d like to learn more. There is
also a glossary of terms if you are unfamiliar with some of the terminology related to assistive
technology and visual impairments.
 Assistive Technology for Reading
Reading is not only an essential part of the English Language Arts curriculum, but is also a key
component of all other subject areas. Students rely on textbooks in science and social studies,
complete word problems in math, and complete assessments that are often text-based. Assistive
technology tools to support reading should reflect the student’s level of visual functioning, their
literacy development, as well as the environmental and task demands.

Environmental Considerations
Consider lighting and positioning of materials for optimal visual function.

Enlarged Text
For students with some existing visual function, providing text information in enlarged format
may be the simplest strategy. As a general rule of thumb, 18 point or 24 point font size is good,
but enlarging beyond that may not be efficient. Enlarged text can be acquired through a variety
of sources, including publishers and vendors, or materials modified through the magnification
feature of copy machines, while text size of most digital materials can be easily adjusted to a
user’s preference.

Handheld Magnifiers
These low-tech, portable tools allow students with some vision to access not only text, but other
objects in their environment as well. They are available in a range of magnification power, are
relatively inexpensive, and eliminate some material modification. However, selection of
magnification power should be based on the recommendations of a low vision specialist.

Video Magnifier
A video magnifier can be used for other objects as well. It may be in the form of handheld
device, a stand-alone device, or work with a computer, TV or projection system.

Braille
For students who do not have sufficient vision to rely on other supports, Braille is an essential
tool for teaching literacy skills and will serve as a lifelong skill. Learning Braille allows students
to experience aspects of written language such as spelling, grammar and sentence structure, and
will provide a valuable foundation for written language. Braille products can be obtained
commercially or can be created using specialized software and a braille embosser.

Braille Labeler
Labelling items throughout the student’s environment will not only reinforce vocabulary,
spelling and reading but will also promote independence and assist with orientation.

Audio Books
Audio books are generally recorded using human voice, and can be accessed through the use of
specialized computer software, devices, or mainstream tools like MP3 players. The various
devices allow options in features such as searching and navigating an audio file. While many
students will find the use of audio books useful, educators warn not to rely solely on audio books
for access to text. Students who are still developing literacy skills need continued access to print
or braille, while preferences of older students vary.

Digital Text
The use of digital text provides one of the widest ranges of options to students with varying
needs. Visual aspects of documents and text can be customized, a variety of supports can be
easily integrated, and digital text can be obtained through numerous resources. Digital text
materials can be obtained commercially, through providers of accessible instructional materials,
or created by instructors and students themselves, and can be accessed through a variety of tools
including computers, mobile devices, or specialized devices such as braille notetakers.
 Digital text generally allows user to adjust the visual display including font size, color,
and contrast.
 Digital text can be viewed on an enlarged monitor.
 Computer magnification software can be used to view digital text, and can be customized
by magnification level, area of the display being magnified, and visual qualities of
display.
 Text-to-speech software allows the computer to “read” digital text to the student in a
digitized voice. Some programs will highlight words as they are read, allowing students
to follow along.
 Refreshable braille displays can be connected to the digital text source, providing
students with the option to read the text tactually.
 Scanners with optical character recognition (OCR) can be used to create digital text that
can then be used with any of the above tools. OCR scanners can be handheld or
freestanding.

Video Magnification System Refreshable Braille Display

Retrieved from: Retrieved from:
http://www.abisee.com/products/eye-pal-vision- http://www.pathstoliteracy.org/tech
general.html nology-braille-readers
 Assistive Technology for Writing
Writing Tools
Using bold felt-tip markers or soft lead pencils can provide greater contrast on paper, allowing
students with low vision to read with greater ease.

Adaptive Paper
Specialized paper with darkened lines, raised lines, or using color can significantly improve the
writing of students with low vision.

Slate and Stylus

A slate and stylus can be equated to paper and pencil for individuals who are blind. This simple
low tech tool allows students to quickly and efficiently complete simple tasks like creating labels
or writing notes to themselves. The slate and stylus is not practical for longer writing tasks.

Handheld Digital Recorder

A handheld digital recorder allows the student to record lectures, dictate assignments, or make
notes to self.

Video Magnification/CCTV
Writing with traditional paper and pencil under a video magnification camera allows the student
to view their work in real time through the use of a large monitor.

Word Processor
Word processors are readily available and are highly adaptable. Text size and font can be
customized or built-in operating system accessibility features can be used to enhance the visual
display. The use of adaptive keyboards with high contrast or enlarged keys can also be utilized

Word Processor with Specialized Software

Text-to-speech software can create a “talking word processor” which provides feedback to the
student about what they have typed, while speech recognition software allows the student to
dictate into a microphone, which the computer translates into text. Screen magnification
software can enlarge the entire display or only selected portions and may or may not provide
audio feedback.

Word Processor with Refreshable Braille Display

For students with no vision, a refreshable braille display can be used in conjunction with the
word processor, which will display the text tactually allowing the student to reread and edit their
own work. This strategy can be used with or without audio feedback, which supports
multisensory learners and allows the student to choose the access method. The incorporation of
braille has the potential to significantly improve the editing process.
Manual & Electric Braillewriters
A manual braillewriter is similar to a typewriter and is a simple, yet rugged device that is often
introduced to students who are emergent readers and writers. As students progress, they may
transition to an electronic braillewriter before beginning to use a braille notetaker.

Braille Notetaker
A braille notetaker is a portable word processing device that utilizes the eight key braille input
system and has an integrated refreshable braille display. This tool encompasses many functional
areas in addition to writing. Students can use a braille notetaker to complete assignments, read
textbooks, and navigate the Internet. Although products and their features vary, many are
available with speech output, Wi-Fi connectivity, access to e-mail, calculators, calendars and
other personal organizational tools, or GPS navigation systems. The braille notetaker is a
lifelong tool and should be introduced as soon as the student demonstrates readiness.

Braille Embosser
A braille embosser allows the student to print out their completed work in braille format.

Manual Brailler
Retrieved from: Writing with CCTV
http://shop.aph.org/wcsstore/APHConsumer Retrieved from:
Direct/Attachment/products_secondary/1- http://www.opmnj.com/services
00815-00_LightTouchPerkins_girl.jpg /low-vision.html

BrailleNote Apex
Retrieved from:
http://www.humanware.com/en-
usa/products/blindness/braillenotes
 Assistive Technology for Math
Due to the visual and abstract nature of math concepts, math is perhaps one of the most
challenging subjects for students with visual impairments to master. Using two-dimensional, and
when possible, 3-dimensional items to represent math concepts, space, diagrams, and graphs is
critical to helping students grasp and form mental images of these concepts.

Abacus
The abacus is a critical tool for early math development among students who are blind, but
continues to be a practical tool for many students as they get older. It is used to teach early
number concepts, operations and fractions, can be used in lieu of paper and pencil, and is a low-
tech substitute for a calculator.

Tactile, Braille and Visually Enhanced Manipulatives

Math manipulatives are a critical component to teaching beginning math concepts in primary
grades, and continue to play a vital role in grasping math as students progress into middle and
secondary school. Here is a list of manipulatives that may be useful to your student:
 Tactile manipulatives for sorting by size, shape, or other properties
 Geometric manipulatives can be used to show concepts such as angles, area, and spatial
relationships
 Tactile or braille number line
 Fraction manipulatives and puzzles
 Large print/braille dice can be used to reinforce number recognition and play a variety of
math games
 Large print/braille Bingo cards teach students to quickly scan for numbers while
reinforcing concepts of horizontal, vertical and diagonal
 Base-ten blocks and braille math blocks help students “visualize” and manipulate
numbers
 Large print or braille hundreds board
 Pegboards or geoboards are useful for teaching shapes, spatial relations, or graphing
 Wikki StixTM can be used to represent lines or shapes
 Braille flashcards

Low-tech Refreshable Braille Cubes

These non-electric, low-tech tools can be used to introduce and reinforce Nemeth Code (the
braille system for writing numbers and math functions), but can also be used to teach patterning
and simple math operations.

Manual and Electronic Braillewriters

Can be used for writing out math computations. Although somewhat time consuming and
awkward, introducing the braillewriter in early math instruction is useful in helping students
understand the steps involved in completing math operations.
Adaptive Calculators
Adaptive calculators range from simple 5-function, to scientific and graphic calculators. Built-in
supports include large display and large keys, tactile or braille keys, braille displays (which are
very expensive) and talking calculators. In addition, some adaptive calculators are compatible
with a computer or CCTV for viewing on a large monitor. Digital talking calculators are also
available for both computers and mobile devices or are integrated into advanced math software.

Adaptive Measurement Tools

Measurement tools can be adapted through large print, tactile cues or braille, or electronic
devices are available with audio feedback, as with a talking measuring tape. Some examples
include rulers, tape measures, protractors and compasses.

Adaptive Time Pieces

Tools for teaching and telling time can be adapted with large print, tactile cues, braille or
auditory feedback, and may include clocks, watches, and calendars.

Talking Money Identifier

This handheld device may be helpful for students when learning and working with money.

Adaptive Paper and Tactile Graphics

While 2- and 3-dimensional manipulatives are preferable for representing charts, graphs,
diagrams, tables, angles and shapes, when unavailable, tactile graphics can utilized as well.
These can be purchased, or created using swell paper, or produced using specialized software
and an embosser. Other adaptive paper includes raised-line graph paper.

Specialized Math Software

Depending on the software being used, accessing and completing math assignments digitally
allows the use of supports such as screen magnification, text-to-speech support, audio
representation of graphics, and translation into Nemeth code.

Abacus
Retrieved from: Big Key Calculator
http://blennzonlinelearninglibrary.edublogs.org Retrieved from:
/2012/12/01/developing-early-abacus-skills-at- http://www.enablemart.com/giant-
primary-school/ calculator

Braille Ruler
Retrieved from:
http://atwiki.assistivetech.net/index.php/Math_notati
on
 Assistive Technology to Support
Social Studies and Science
The supports used by students for reading and writing will, of course, play an integral role in
their access to and participation in both social studies and science. However, there are additional
considerations that will optimize their participation.

Magnification
For students with low vision, handheld magnifiers, digital magnifiers, and CCTVs may be useful
for viewing and manipulating objects, observing experiments, or viewing graphic information.

Visually Enhanced or Tactile Graphics

Drawings, maps, graphs, and tables can be enlarged, outlined with a felt tip marker, color coded,
or modified to eliminate unneeded visual information. Tactile graphics can be created using
objects like Wikki StixTM or other manipulatives, swell paper, or an embosser. Relief maps are
often available through vendors, agencies, libraries or museums. Braille labels may also be added
to maps.

Models and 3-Dimensional Objects

Models and 3-dimensional representations of objects can be purchased from vendors, borrowed
from museums, or created using common objects. Presenting a multisensory representation of
objects is more meaningful than relying solely on tactile graphics.

Large Print, Tactile, Or Braille Measuring Tools

In addition to the adaptive measuring tools discussed in the math section, items such as large
print, braille or talking scales or thermometer may be useful in the science lab.

Specialized Software
Specialized STEM (Science, technology, engineering and math) software is available that
provides a variety of support, including screen magnification, screen reading, voice navigation,
and built in talking calculators.

Handheld Computing Device

For students in advanced science classes, accessible handheld computing devices are available
with speech output that provides audio feedback and can be used to complete a variety of
science-related data collection and analysis.

Adapted Map Talking LabQuest

Retrieved from: Retrieved from:
http://www.maproomblog.com/2007/03/maps_for http://www.independencescience.com/sensors-
_the_visually_impaired.php and-accessories.php
 Assistive Technology for Computer
Access
Skills and competence in computer use are essential to every student in the 21st century, and will
significantly increase a student’s success in their pursuit of higher education, vocation and
independent living after graduating from high school. Instruction in basic keyboarding and word
processing skills should begin early. As students grow older, use of social media tools should
also be explicitly taught as key to participation and inclusion in higher education, many
vocational settings, and society in general.

Adaptive Hardware
Hardware such as enlarged, large print or high contrast keyboards, as well as enlarged monitors
may provide adequate supports to students with low vision, allowing them to use the computer
independently.

Operating System Accessibility

Whether using a Mac, PC, desktop or mobile device, all operating systems have built-in
accessibility features that may make the device easier to use. These include changes to visual
display (i.e. high contrast, color scheme, font size), enlarged icons, screen magnification,
enlarging the cursor or pointer, or a built-in screen reader.

Specialized Accessibility Software

When built-in accessibility features do not provide adequate support, specialized software can be
used to create a highly customized computer environment. This may include features such as
text-to-speech feedback with and without text highlighting, the ability to customize what is
magnified on the screen, greater customization of visual displays, voice navigation, and
advanced screen reading features.

Refreshable Braille Display

A refreshable braille display can be used as a peripheral device with a desktop, laptop or mobile
computing device, providing braille translation of documents, websites, and other text
information.

iPad with Refreshable Braille Display Windows Accessibility Options

Retrieved from: Retrieved from:
http://www.bartimeus.nl/hulpmidde https://www.microsoft.com/enabl
len_detail/ipad_in_het_onderwijs e/guides/vision.aspx
 Assistive Technology to Support
Orientation and Mobility
Safe, efficient and independent travel throughout the school environment should be a high
priority for all students. For those with visual impairments, a Certified Orientation and Mobility
Specialist should be consulted to determine appropriate modifications and supports. Some
assistive technology tools that may be implemented are described here.

Low Tech Adaptations in Environment

Attention should be given to the entire environment: both inside and outside of the school
building. When possible, rearrange furniture, shelving, or other potential hazards. Take into
consideration lighting. You may consider reducing glare through use of windows shades or film,
or allowing the student to wear a hat with a brim. Decrease visual clutter and store materials and
frequently used objects in a consistent location. Use color or contrast tape to identify steps,
curbs, boundaries, door frames, or shelves. Provide tactile cues or braille labels for objects and
landmarks throughout the environment. Window decals on glass doors can prevent unnecessary
accidents for students with low vision.

Cane
This is an important tool for students with visual impairment, especially those who are blind, to
allow safe and independent travel throughout all environments. Effective use of a cane requires
training from a Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialist. Students with multiple disabilities
and wheelchair users may require an adapted cane.

Enlarged, Braille or Talking Compass

This handheld device provides visual, tactile or auditory cues related to direction.

Electronic Travel Aids

Electronic travel aids (ETA) use a variety of systems including radar, sonar and optical
triangulation to detect barriers and provide feedback through vibration or auditory cues in an
effort to compensate for limited “spatial sensing”. ETAs may be an effective supplement to long
canes but will not replace a cane.

GPS Devices
GPS devices use satellite technology to provide auditory feedback to individuals regarding their
position, direction of movement, environment, and routes. They may be dedicated devices, or
GPS technology may be integrated into other devices such as a smart phone, mobile device, or
braille notetaker.

Student with cane

Retrieved from:
http://www.pcc.edu/resources/disabi
lity/sensory.html
 Assistive Technology For
Art, Music and Physical Education
Students with visual impairments may require adaptations and assistive technology to fully
participate in, enjoy, and benefit from art, music, and physical education. Some strategies and
tools are listed here, but this not a comprehensive list – often participation in art, music or
physical education will require “thinking out of the box” and creative problem solving. Keep in
mind that art is a process of not only exploring the work of others but also of expressing one’s
own creativity. The objective of an art project is not necessarily to produce something that is
visually pleasing to others, but to create something that is meaningful to the student.

Magnification
Use of handheld or digital magnifiers, a CCTV, or a light box may assist students with low
vision in exploring the work of others or by providing visual feedback as they complete their
own work.

Textures and Materials

Provide a rich sensory experience in art through the use of a variety of media, including textured
fabrics, textured glass, wire or plastic mesh, paper mache, clay, finger prints. Provide 3-
dimensional objects that can be combined to create a product as a substitute to 2-dimensional
drawings. Add a variety of objects to products to add tactile interest and depth.

Specialized Materials
Items such as swell paper, embossed pictures, a tactile drawing board, or tactile diagram kits may
be useful for viewing and creating projects.

Low Tech Adaptations for Music

Music can be enlarged using a copier or purchased from a vendor. Lyrics can be provided in
large text or braille format. Music instruments can be labelled with braille.

Mid- to High-tech Supports for Music

Specialized low vision music reading devices allow the student to read music with a variety of
visual display options including magnification, contrast, and color. Specialized music software
allows blind students to create and read music with audio or braille output.

Adaptive Tools for Physical Education

Physical education is a wonderful opportunity for students with visual impairments to practice
orientation and mobility skills, experience the freedom of movement, and develop lifelong
healthy habits. A range of low-tech modifications and specialized equipment can facilitate
independence and participation.
 Tape and string can be used to provide tactile boundaries to a playing area, while
high contrast tape can provide visual cues.
  The use of acoustic equipment (i.e. beeper balls) or low-tech adaptations such as
players wearing bells can provide essential auditory cues. Goal ball is a sport
which challenges players to rely solely on tactile, auditory and spatial awareness.
 A tether, or short guide rope, can be used with a guide runner to participate in
track activities.
 Tandem bicycles allow a student and peer to participate in physical activity
together.
 A batting “T” and a “caller” on base encourages independence and participation
in baseball or softball.
 A tapper (pole with tennis ball) can be used to provide cues to a swimmer as they
approach the end of the pool. A sprinkler aimed at the end of the lane may also
do the trick.
 Guide rails can be used during bowling.

LimeLighter Music Reader Embossed coloring page

Retrieved from: Retrieved from:
http://www.dancingdots.com/limelighter/limelight https://shop.aph.org/wcsstore/APHConsumerDirect/Attachme
ermain.htm nt/products_secondary/1-03933-00-Paint-Pot-Palette_Bear.jpg

Tandem cycling
Retrieved from:
http://photos.oregonlive.com/oregonian/2009/
07/blind_kids_tandem_bike_ride_11.html
 Agencies & Organizations
Where You Can Learn More
American Association of Blind Teachers. Geared toward supports for teachers who are
visually impaired, this website also includes many resources that can be applied to promote
student success as well, including integration of assistive technology.
http://www.blindteachers.net/

American Foundation for the Blind. In addition to their product line, the AFB has many
resources to help educators, families and individuals find the resources they need to maximize
independence. www.afb.org

AppleVis. An online resource developed to help individuals with visual impairments make the
most of their iOS devices. Provides support for access, troubleshooting, information about
accessories, and app reviews. http://www.applevis.com/

Paths to Literacy. A collaborative effort between the Perkins School for the Blind and the
Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired, this website is devoted to addressing literacy
needs of students with visual impairments. It contains extensive resources related to strategies
and tools for accessing information and engaging in learning across curricular areas.
http://www.pathstoliteracy.org/

Perkins School for the Blind. Extensive resources for individuals, families and educators,
including a teacher resources page with links to webinars, articles, and “ask the expert”.
http://www.perkins.org/

Special Education Technology British Columbia. This website has extensive resources for
students with visual impairments in their “Learning Centre”.
http://www.setbc.org/lcindexer/default.aspx

Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired. Extensive resources for individuals,
families and educators, including supports for assessment, accessing the curriculum, AT
implementation, administrative issues, and information for students with multiple disabilities.
http://www.tsbvi.edu/

United States Association of Blind Athletes. Information related to recreational and sports
opportunities for individuals with visual impairments. http://www.usaba.org/
 Product Vendors
Ai Squared. A source for screen magnification and screen reading software, adaptive
keyboards, and magnifiers. http://www.aisquared.com/

American Printing House for the Blind. A source for an extensive range of low-tech to high-
tech AT products, accessible media, materials and tests, tactile graphic image library, and
software. http://www.aph.org/

C-Tech Low Vision Products. A source for mid- to low-tech AT including digital book
players, video magnifiers, screen magnification and screen reading software, GPS systems,
braille displays and notetakers. http://www.lowvisionproducts.com

Dancing Dots. Accessible music technology for blind and low vision musicians, including a low
vision music reading device, resources for creating and using braille music, and music translator.
http://www.dancingdots.com

Enablemart. A range of low- to high-tech products including handheld and video magnifiers,
OCR scanners, specialized software, adaptive calculators, color identifier, braille displays,
embossers and notetakers, and book players. Also carry products for students with multiple
disabilities. http://www.enablemart.com

Freedom Scientific. A source of mid-tech to high-tech solutions including screen magnification

software, screen reading software, CCTVs, braille displays, braille notetakers, audio book
players, and curriculum support. http://www.freedomscientific.com/

Humanware. A source for mid- to low-tech AT including handheld magnifiers, digital

magnifiers, screen magnification and reader software, OCR software and scanners, book players,
GPS systems, braille printers, braille displays and notetakers. Also carries products for students
with deaf-blindness. http://www.humanware.com

Independent Living Aids. A broad range of AT from low- to high-tech, including magnifiers,
adaptive calculators, watches and measuring tools, mobility products, braillers and braille
products including games and instructional materials, labelers, slate, adaptive paper, and maps.
http://www.independentliving.com

Independent Science. Publishers, of specialized accessible STEM (science, technology,

engineering and math) software and tools for data collection and analysis. Also provides
resources for adapting STEM curriculum. http://www.independencescience.com

Maxi Aids. Variety of adaptive aids for independent living and recreation.
http://www.maxiaids.com.

National Foundation for the Blind. Visit their “Independence Market” for products addressing
life skills, mobility, reading, writing, and other curriculum areas. http://nfb.org
 Glossary of Terms
Abacus: An adaptation of the traditional Japanese abacus, this device is used to teach basic
number concepts, addition and subtraction for students with visual impairments.

Adaptive paper: Paper that may provide extra visual or tactile cues and feedback to aid in the
process of writing. Examples include raised-line paper, dark-line paper, color-coded paper, and
writing guides.

Accessible instructional materials (AIM): Materials that are designed or modified to provide
access to the widest possible range of students, including those with disabilities. Accessible
formats may include Braille, large print, audio, or digital materials. AIM is required under
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act for students who cannot access or use traditional
print materials.

Acuity: A measure of the ability to see details of the smallest possible letter or symbol. Typical
acuity is 20/20 (print size/distance).

Assistive technology: Any tool that is used to improve, increase or maintain functional
capabilities of an individual with a disability. Includes a range from simple and inexpensive low
tech solutions to complex high tech systems.

Audio book: A recording of a book, typically using human voice. May be available in various
formats, including MP3, .wav, or DAISY. Some audio book players have advanced navigation
and search features (generally requires DAISY format).

Blindness: An inability to see anything using either eye.

Braille: A tactile reading system, utilizing a 6-dot system of characters, typically used by
individuals who have extremely limited or no functional vision. Braille characters represent
letters, therefore is an important literacy tool for students who cannot otherwise access text, and
should not be substituted entirely by audio.

Braille display: See “refreshable Braille display”.

Braille embosser: A printer used for producing Braille on paper.

Braille notetaker: A portable Braille word processing device with refreshable Braille display
and synthesized speech. May have additional features, including personal organization tools,
Internet access, e-mail access or GPS.

Braille writer: Similar to a typewriter, a Braille writer uses six keys, that when pressed in
various combinations, create Braille code characters on a sheet of paper. Device also has space,
backspace and line space keys. May be manual or electronic.
Closed Caption Television (CCTV): An electronic system for capturing and projecting an
enlarged image onto a screen or monitor. Also referred to as “video magnifier” (see below).

Cortical visual impairment (CVI): A neurological visual disorder results in inefficient,

disturbed vision, due to brain pathology rather than damage to the eyes or optic nerve.

DAISY (Digital Accessible Information SYstem): A format of digital materials that meets
international standards for accessibility, by enhancing navigation and supporting text/audio
synchronization. DAISY files require specialized software or devices to read.

Digital audio books: May be human voice or computer synthesized voice, available in multiple
formats. Can be played on a computer or a digital audio player (many off-the-shelf digital audio
players do not offer full accessibility or are not compatible with all formats).

Digital recorder: A portable electronic audio recorder that saves recorders in digital format,
allowing the user to save and manage files on a computer. Digital recorders may be used as part
of the writing process or to capture information from lectures or lessons.

Digital book player: Stand-alone device or computer software that provides access to digital
talking books specifically developed for individuals with disabilities, with advanced features
such as changing the audio output speed, navigating and searching the file.

Document camera: A system for capturing images of a document or object and projecting onto
a monitor or screen. Typically used by the general population and frequently lacks the advanced
features of video magnifiers.

Enlarged text: A process of enlarging text for low vision readers that can be accomplished by
changing the font on electronic files or through the use of a copy machine. Standard large font is
from 18 to 24 pt.

E-text (electronic text): Any text available in digital format, which can be accessed
electronically (i.e. through computer or other mobile devices). Appearance of e-text can
typically be modified by changing font, size, or text and background colors.

Global Positioning System (GPS): A satellite navigation system commonly used by drivers to
determine position, direction, and assist with navigation. Devices or software with GPS
capabilities may help an individual with visual impairment move more independently and safely
throughout their community.

Handheld magnifier: A small, portable, low tech device that can be used to provide immediate
magnification or illumination. Range in magnification from 2x to 16x, and should be prescribed
by a low vision specialist.
Legally blind: A level of vision loss with central visual acuity of 20/200 or less in the better eye
with best possible correction, and/or a visual field of 20 degrees or less (Key definitions of
statistical terms, 2013).

Low vision: Term used interchangeably with “visually impaired”.

Monocular: A handheld device similar to a telescope, generally used to improve visual clarify
from a distance.

Nemeth code: Braille code for writing mathematical and scientific notations, using the 6-dot
Braille system.

Optical character recognition (OCR): A process of converting images to digital text, allowing
text images to be read, edited or otherwise manipulated. Some specialized software or devices
incorporate OCR to enable text-to-speech capabilities.

Orientation and mobility: The process of learning to safely and independently travel
throughout one’s environment, while reinforcing concepts about body, space, direction and
movement.

Refreshable Braille Display: A device that can display Braille characters using a dynamic
system of dots that can be raised. Can be used with a computer or other devices to allow the user
to read digital text through Braille.

Screen magnification: Enlargement of computer screen content using software. Depending on

the software, may provide audio feedback, allow for color enhancement, or modify cursor and
pointer. Some software will enlarge the individual items on the screen, maintaining the screen
integrity, while others zoom in on only one section of the screen, requiring the user to navigate to
the unseen portions of the screen.

Screen reader: Digital content of a computer monitor (i.e. text, icons, graphics) are read by
software in an audio format.

Slate and stylus: A low tech template and punch which allows the user to create Braille on a
paper. Not commonly used.

Speech-to-text: Software that converts spoken word into text through a process known as
“dictation”, or allows voice-activated access to a computer through “commands”.

Tactual reading: Another term for reading through the use of Braille.

Text-to-speech: Software that allows the computer to “read” text out loud using digitized voice.
May be used to access digital text (i.e. documents, websites) or in conjunction with writing (i.e.
talking word processor). Some versions include tracking support, where text is highlighted as it
is read by the computer.
Video magnifier: Using a video camera, an image is captured and projected onto a video
monitor or TV screen. May be used with documents, while writing or completing a fine motor
task, or to view objects. Some video magnifiers have cameras that can be repositioned to view
other parts of the classroom (“room viewing”).

Visual impairment: A general description of significant vision loss. May include individuals
with low vision, legal blindness, or total blindness. Clinically, visual impairment is defined as a
visual acuity of 20/70 or worse in the best eye with correction, or total visual field loss of 140
degrees. Visual impairment is defined in IDEA more generally as a visual impairment that
adversely affects a child’s educational performance.