B.Ed. (Learning Disability) (LD) Orientation and Mobility Syllabus - Mumbai University

Introduction

• Movement with independence in the environment has been stated to be one of the major challenges of vision loss. In order to facilitate their meaningful empowerment, therefore, it is necessary to provide students with visual impairment skills and techniques which enable them to cope with these challenges. Developments, especially during and after World War II, have led to the emergence of a large variety of such strategies, skills and technologies, which are covered under the discipline titled Orientation and Mobility. So, the present course carrying the same title introduces the learners to various crucial aspects of this vital subject. It is hoped that through the study of the course, the learners would be in a better position to understand the implications of vision loss with reference to independent movement. It would also enable them to get insights into basic skills and components essential for meaningful orientation and easy and graceful movement for the visually impaired.

Objectives

After completing the course the learners will be able to:

• Describe the nature and scope of O&M as also the O& M related responsibilities of the special teacher.
• Acquire basic knowledge of human guide techniques.
• Describe pre-cane and cane travel skills and devices.
• Get acquainted with the importance and skills of training in independent living for the visually impaired.

Module 1: Introduction to Orientation and Mobility

• 1.1 Orientation and Mobility --Definition, Importance and Scope
• 1.2 Basic Terminologies Associated with O&M: Trailing, Landmarks, Clues, Cues, Shoreline, Squaring Off, Clockwise Direction, Sound Masking, Sound Shadow
• 1.3 Roles of Other Senses in O&M Training
• 1.4 Special Responsibilities of Special Teacher/ Educator with reference to O&M Training
• 1.5 Blindfold--Rationale and Uses for the Teacher

Module 2: Understanding and practicing Human/Sighted Guide Technique

• 2.1 Grip
• 2.2 Stance
• 2.3 Hand Position
• 2.4 Speed Control
• 2.5 Negotiating: Narrow Spaces, Seating Arrangements, Staircases, Muddy paths

Module 3: Pre-Cane Skills

• 3.1 Upper and Lower Body protection
• 3.2 Room Familiarization
• 3.3 Using Oral Description for Orientation
• 3.4 Search Patterns
• 3.5 Building Map reading Skills

Module 4: Cane Travel Techniques and Devices

• 4.1 Canes--Types, Parts, Six Considerations
• 4.2 Cane Travel Techniques: Touch Technique, Touch and Drag Technique, Diagonal Cane Technique
• 4.3 Use of Public Transport
• 4.4 Asking for Help: When and How
• 4.5 Electronic Devices, Tactile and Auditory Maps -- Description and Uses

Module 5: Training In Independent Living Skills

• 5.1 Self Care, Gait and Posture
• 5.2 Personal Grooming
• 5.3 Eating Skills and Etiquette
• 5.4 Identification of Coins and Currency Notes
• 5.5 Basics of Signature Writing

Transactions

• Conventional lecturing, PPTs, Visits, Observations, Demonstrations, class discussions, Videos, reflecting upon learnt knowledge.

Hands on Experience for notional hours: (ANY TWO) 30 Hrs 10 Marks

• 1 Act as a sighted guide in different situations/settings and submit reflections.
• 2 Prepare a list of canes and other devices available with various sources along with prices.
• 3 Undergo an experience of moving under a blindfold for a few minutes and describe the experience in 200 words.
• 4 Make a short PowerPoint presentation on the importance of O&M for the visually impaired.
• 5 Draw up a list of important clues /cues/landmarks which the visually impaired student can use in the school.

Essential Readings

• Blasch, B. B., Weiner, W. R., & Welsh, R. L. (1997). Foundations of Orientation and Mobility (2nd ed.). New York: AFB Press.
• Cutter, Joseph (2006). Independent Movement and Travel in Blind Children. North Carolina: IAP
• Fazzi, D. L. & Petersmeyer, B. A. (2001). Imagining the Possibilities: Creative Approaches to Orientation and Mobility Instruction for Persons who are Visually Impaired. New York: AFB Press.
• Jaekle, Robert C.( 1993). Mobility Skills for Blind People : A Guide for Use in Rural Areas. Christoffel BlindenMission.
• Knott, N. I. (2002). Teaching Orientation and Mobility in the Schools: An Instructor’s Companion. New York: AFB Press.
• Smith, A. J. & Geruschat, D. R. (1996). Orientation and Mobility for Children and Adults with Low Vision. In A. L. Corn & A. J. Koenig (Eds.), Foundations of Low Vision: Clinical and Functional Perspectives .New York: AFB.

Suggested Readings

• Dodds, Allan(1986). Mobility Training for Visually Handicapped People. London: Croom Helm
• Hill, Everett and Ponder, Purvis (1976). Orientation and Mobility Techniques. New York: AFB
• Jacobson, W.H. (1993). The Art and Science of Teaching Orientation and Mobility to Persons with Visual Impairments. New York: AFB Press.
• Singh, J.P. (2003). Technology for the Blind. New Delhi: Kanishka Publication