This blog post from Paths to Technology discusses some of the ways in which an iPad can be used as part of a Functional Vision Assessment / Learning Media Assessment (FVA/LMA) for young children with visual impairments. TVI Annette Vinding shares tips for getting started:
- Make sure your FVA/LMA does not sound like an adaptive technology assessment.
- Determine whether or not the child is already familiar with an app.
- Find apps that child is able to use.
- Use a “tough love” approach to iPad use during your sessions.
- Having the TVI hold the iPad allows you to control the positioning of the iPad.
- Use the apps last during a FVA/LMA session.
- Plan ahead for something that makes it easier for the session with an iPad to end.
- Find ways to look at similar/same skills without using an iPad.
- Clarify the prefered use of lighting, including backlighting and level of lighting.
- Include apps that provide information about the child’s field of vision, tracking, and eye-hand skills.
- Try using the same app with and without sound.
- Note if motions on the iPad engage the child’s visual attention, as this may make a difference to children with CVI.
- Avoid using eye chart apps during the FVA/LMA session.
- Be familiar enough with the app that you can use it smoothly.
See the list of recommended apps and the full post.
