Introduction: Despite the plethora of sensor-based assistive technology solutions, there is still no widespread acceptance and adoption by people who are blind or have low vision (i.e., visually impaired). Many reasons prevent reducing abandonment levels with a prominent one being a lack of focus on the dimension of training, which, from our…

Introduction: Proficient use of technology requires many intersecting skills including literacy, citizenship, advocacy, self-determination, and digital competence. In this study, the authors engaged experts in the field of visual impairment in focus groups with the purpose of defining digital competence, discussing issues related to visual…

Introduction: The shortage of teachers of students with visual impairments is well documented, yet little research exists exploring the motivations of why individuals join the profession. This study evaluated why alumni of a Southeastern teacher preparation program became teachers of students with visual impairments and how they chose which…

Introduction: This study evaluated performance and engagement on the tactile science alternate assessment based on alternate academic standards (AA-AAS). This assessment was designed for students with significant intellectual disabilities and visual impairments (i.e., blindness and low vision). Four primary research questions guided this study.…

Introduction: To better serve students with visual impairments who are enrolled in personnel preparation programs training orientation and mobility (O&M) specialists, faculty should be aware of effective teaching strategies, tools, and resources to use. In this context, it is vital that instructors in personnel preparation programs for O&M…

Introduction: This article covers the technical development and usability testing of "4to24," a mobile application (app) for students with visual impairments and their parents. The app includes information and resources on numerous topics to support and encourage preparation for employment from an early age. Methods: We partnered with…

Introduction: Breast cancer is a significant health problem affecting the health of women globally. Breast self-examination is a procedure applied for the early detection of breast cancer. Given the barriers that women with visual impairments face to access health care and health education, there is a need to develop materials for breast…

Introduction: This study examined the interstate variability in eligibility criteria for the disability category of deafblindness. Methods: We systematically reviewed and coded information related to the location of state data, the use of federal language in state definitions, additional eligibility criteria (i.e., disability eligibility…

Introduction: In this study, the authors investigated visual impairment and its associated psychological factors, with emphasis on depression, anxiety, stress, self-esteem, and perceived social support. Methods: A mixed-method approach was used by integrating a focus group discussion and a cross-sectional survey. The study was conducted with 444…

Introduction: Children with optic nerve hypoplasia (ONH) frequently have co-occurring developmental disorders, and children with both visual impairments and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have complex educational needs. Research Question: Do the individualized education programs (IEPs) of children with visual impairment and ASD comport with…

This article proposes a solution to the unemployment rate of individuals with visual impairments: training Spanish speakers who are visually impaired to become Spanish interpreters. Interpreting was selected as a viable pathway to employment because it requires the professional to work with the spoken word. It presents fewer accessibility barriers…

Introduction: Special education eligibility criteria vary across U.S. states; this study reports a systematic analysis of interstate eligibility criteria in the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) category of visual impairments including blindness. Method: Eligibility criteria for all 56 U.S. states, territories, and Washington, DC,…

Introduction: Visual model comprehension and application are important for success in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) courses. As educational materials shift to primarily digital content with dynamic interactive visuals, students with visual impairments are at risk for being disadvantaged, since few interactives are born…

Introduction: Social skills are acquired primarily through imitation using the visual system. As a result, people with visual impairments may experience difficulties in this area at any age, which can have a major effect on their social participation and on their quality of life. The objective of this study was to systematically review the effects…

Introduction: There is an increasing need for occupational therapists with the skills to provide low vision services, however, there is a lack of standardized training of low vision occupational therapy services. The purpose of this study is to design and evaluate a course for occupational therapy students to improve their skills and knowledge…