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Linda Dial April Ghionzoli Ali Heller EDMX 635
Linda Dial April Ghionzoli Ali Heller EDMX 635
EDMX 635
Our presentation today is a very practical look of what you would do if you are notified that you will have a student with deaf-blindness in your classroom.
What is Deaf-Blindness?
A condition in which the combination of
hearing and visual losses in children cause such severe communication and other developmental and educational needs that they cannot be accommodated in special education programs solely for children with deafness or children with blindness.
Causes of Deaf-Blindness
Premature birth
Cytomegalovirus or toxoplasmosis (infections during
pregnancy) CHARGE syndrome (genetic condition) Usher syndrome (genetic or inherited condition) Rubella (disease caused by a virus) Down syndrome Cerebral palsy Congenital or Acquired
Become Informed
Learn about the Blind-Deaf community before your
student arrives
Read books, search online, speak to other
teachers/staff
Call Blind-Deaf resource office Meet with your staff to share this information
Build Trust
Set up centers & activities to allow the student to
Assessment
The assessment process begins...
Assessment
One of the most challenging aspects
Use authentic assessments Obtain information in the natural environment
communication
Methods vary, depending on the causes of combined vision
Sign Language Modifications (tactile, adapted) Tactile finger spelling Speech Reading Screen Braille communication Print on Palm (POP)
Structured Support
Team Collaboration
needs Learn by doing Small group or individual instruction is critical Curriculum focus should be on bonding and developing interactions and routines for expanding the frequency and functions of communication
Curriculum
Curriculum Guide for Deaf-Blind & Severely Multi
Handicapped Students Communication skills Techniques of daily living Orientation and mobility Sensory stimulation www.stoeltingco.com
Team Members
Deaf-Blind Specialist Teacher of students with Visual Impairments Teacher of students who are Deaf/Hard of Hearing Orientation and Mobility Specialist Intervener (1:1 service provider) Paraprofessionals Interpreter Parents/family members General Education Teacher District Representative Speech Language Pathologist Psychologist Student