Reviewed is an American Institutes for Research (AIR) study to identify predictors of Optacon success and to develop and field test appropriate Optacon training materials for use by 112 blind elementary and secondary students in 15 U.S. public and residential schools. Potential use of the Optacon (an optical to tactile conversion device that…

Research sought to test the utility of the Optacon (an optical-to-tactile converter, which enables the blind to read ink-print materials), to identify predictors of success with the Optacon, and to observe the Optacon's effect on student attitudes. Matched groups of blind students in grades 4 through 8 and 9 through 12 received instruction…

Using a stratified sample of 112 pupils in grades 4-12, a 2-year study was undertaken to (1) assess the outcomes of Optical-to-Tactile Converter (Optacon) training when carried out in various teaching arrangements, (2) identify predictors of Optacon success, and (3) observe the effect of Optacon training on student attitudes. In addition to…