Producing learning materials in Braille, Moon or large print
InFocus adapts materials for College students according to their individual needs. Many of our young people are totally blind and might require books, texts or images to be produced into Braille or Moon (another tactile communication aid).
Students with some sight may require varying degrees of large print and for the text or paper to be a certain colour. Each young person’s preferred choice is known and catered for, along with any grading that the ophthalmologist may request.
What is Braille and How Does it Work?
Braille is a crucial tool for those who are blind or visually impaired to be able to access information that would otherwise be difficult or impossible for them. It enables them to read books, newspapers, magazines and other various forms of text. For college students who are blind or visually impaired, Braille materials can provide a great support system in the classroom.
It was first created by the French educator Louis Braille in 1824. Braille himself was blind, which made him acutely aware of the difficulties faced by those with visual impairments in accessing education.
To combat this, he created a tactile writing system that would allow them to read and write independently. Skip forward to today, and Braille’s system is used to help blind people all over the world.
Supporting students who are learning Braille or Moon
Individual lessons are available for students who wish to develop their Braille or Moon skills. These are delivered as a stand-alone sessions or as part of a learning activity (where a tutor will support the young person in the classroom).
Access Technology
In order for our students to be working at their best possible levels, we utilise many forms of accessible technology to assist their day-to-day lives and learning. This may be in the form of screen reader software on a PC or laptop; or accessibility functions on iPads and Android tablets and smart phones.
Dedicated Braille hardware and software is also available on site with professional end users teaching this subject area to a high level. We work with many well known suppliers of accessible technology (inc. Humanware & Dolphin) to ensure that our students are able to access the very latest technology available.
Advantages of Braille and Access Technology for Education
Braille and access technology provide a range of advantages when it comes to education such as:
- Accessibility: Braille and access technology provide a means for students with visual impairments to access information that would be difficult or impossible for them to interpret otherwise. This provides an extra layer of support in the classroom.
- Independence: By providing these students with the tools they need, they are empowered to become more independent in the classroom and less reliant on support staff or teachers.
- Confidence: Knowing that they have the tools to access any information gives students a sense of confidence in their ability to learn and succeed in the classroom.
- Equality: By providing equal access to materials, these technologies ensure that all students have an equal chance of succeeding regardless of their disability.
InFocus is dedicated to ensuring that our students have the best possible access to materials and resources in order to achieve their full potential. Our commitment to providing Braille, Moon and access technology gives our blind or visually impaired young people the tools they need to succeed in their college studies.
FAQs
Is learning Braille difficult?
Learning Braille may seem intimidating at first, but with dedication and practice, it can become second nature. Many resources, such as textbooks, online courses, and Braille software, are available to help you learn.
It’s like learning a new language – it takes time and effort, but the reward of being able to read and write independently is incredibly empowering.
Can sighted people learn braille too?
Absolutely! Learning Braille not only allows sighted individuals to communicate with blind or visually impaired friends or family members more effectively, but it can also open doors to employment opportunities. It can be an enriching experience that promotes empathy, understanding, and inclusion.
How is braille be used in everyday life beyond reading and writing?
Many modern technologies have incorporated Braille features to enhance accessibility. For instance, tactile mobile devices are equipped with touchscreens that display Braille, enabling blind users to navigate various applications.
Braille labels are also available for household items and product packaging, allowing individuals to independently identify items. Furthermore, Braille signage in public places such as elevators, restrooms, and doorways enables individuals who are blind or visually impaired to navigate their surroundings with confidence.
Can braille be used in a digital format?
Yes, Braille can absolutely be used in a digital format. In fact, there are now advanced technologies that allow blind individuals to access Braille content on their computers and mobile devices.
These devices, known as Braille displays or Braille notetakers, have a series of small bumps that raise and lower to represent the Braille characters. They connect to computers or smartphones via Bluetooth or USB, allowing blind individuals to read and write in Braille while using various digital applications and documents.
Additionally, there are screen readers and assistive technologies that can convert digital text into speech or Braille output, further enhancing accessibility for blind individuals in the digital world.
If you have any other questions, please feel free to get in touch with us via email at enquiries@infocus-charity.org.uk.