Partially Sighted Students
Partially Sighted Students
Between 70 and 80 percent of all legally blind persons in the United States have measurable vision. The partially sighted student meets the challenge of disability in much the same way as the blind student. This includes the use of readers, audio taped texts, raised line drawings, computers with screen magnifiers, etc. In addition, the partially sighted students may be able to use large print books, a Closed Circuit TV Magnifier, or other magnifying devices. The student may also produce papers in large print. Some partially sighted students will be able to take notes in class by printing very large with a felt tip pen or marker. Others will tape record lectures for later use.
Any potential difficulties can be alleviated if the student and professor discuss the students needs early in the term. Sitting in the front of the room, having large print on the chalk board, or the use of enlarged print on an overhead projector and handouts may assist a partially sighted student. However, the capacity to read printed materials depends so greatly on conditions such as the degree of contrast, brightness, and color that it is preferable to have the student and instructor discuss what methods, techniques, or devices may be used to maximum advantage.