New Videos from the National Research and Training Center on Blindness and Low Vision (NRTC)
NRTC has announced the release of new instructional videos and learning materials, described below:
Instructional Materials on Blindness and Low Vision for University Classes consist of a video on the Basics of Blindness and Low Vision: Understanding a Low Incidence Disability and accompanying instructional resources with “suggested activities and case studies designed to foster in-depth discussion and practical learning.” The goal is to increase understanding of blindness and low vision among college students and professionals in counseling and human service fields. Specifically, it aims to enhance their “readiness to support individuals with visual impairments in their future roles.” The objectives of the video include providing a foundational knowledge on visual impairments, exploring the history of relevant legislation, examining the role of the professional rehabilitation team, and introducing assistive technology, to name a few. For additional information and a link to the video, visit the Mississippi State University webpage announcing that the NRTC Releases Instructional Materials on Blindness and Low Vision for University Classes.
Navigating Vocational Rehabilitation Services, a video, provides resources and information, “dispels myths, and explains how the Vocational Rehabilitation system, or VR, operates.” It covers how VR services may benefit people who are adjusting to vision loss as well as individuals with vision impairment who are seeking to gain or retain employment or advance in their careers. To learn more and access the video, visit the Mississippi State University National Technical Assistance Center on Blindness and Low Vision webpage on Navigating Vocational Rehabilitation Services.
New Course on “SMART” Instruction
This new offering from the OIB-TAC (Older Individuals who are Blind-Technical Assistance Center) of the NRTC presents strategies that can help professionals to enhance the support they provide to individuals with vision loss in achieving success, gaining confidence, and developing problem-solving skills. These strategies facilitate working more efficiently and effectively by setting goals that are Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Timely (SMART). The course can help make the service provider’s work “more manageable and productive while increasing successful client outcomes.” It was developed by Jennifer Ottowitz, a Certified Vision Rehabilitation Therapist and Older Blind Specialist with the OIB-TAC. The course is self-paced and available for one hour of ACVREP (Academy for Certification of Vision Rehabilitation & Education Professionals) and NBPCB (National Blindness Professional Certification Board) credit. For more information and a link to enroll, visit the NRTC webpage on SMART Instruction.
Free Educational Webinar on Telescopic Vision Aids: November 4, 2024
Each month Eschenbach, a manufacturer of low vision aids, including magnification devices, provides live webinars for eyecare and vision rehabilitation professionals. Their next program, focusing on “Telescopic Vision Aids: Part 2,” will take place on November 4, 2024 at 3 pm ET. Participants will learn about the different types of custom-mounted telescopes designed for use by people with low vision. Continuing education credit from ACVREP is available for $15. Learn more here about the series of webinars and register here for the November 4, 2024 program on Telescopic Vision Aids.
