How to Attend School if You Are Blind or Visually Impaired

Attending school can be challenging for students who are blind or visually impaired, but with the right accommodations and support, it is possible to have a successful academic experience. Here are some tips on how to attend school if you are blind or visually impaired:

1. Work with the school's disability services office: Most schools have a disability services office that can provide accommodations for students who are blind or visually impaired. Contact the office and work with them to determine what accommodations you may need.

2. Use assistive technology: There are many tools and devices available that can help students who are blind or visually impaired. For example, screen readers and magnifiers can make it easier to access digital content, and braille displays can be used to read braille text.

3. Learn braille: Braille is a system of raised dots that can be read with the fingertips. Learning braille can be a valuable tool for students who are blind or visually impaired, as it can help them read and write independently.

4. Use tactile graphics: Tactile graphics are raised images that can be felt with the fingertips. These can be used to help students understand visual concepts, such as maps, diagrams, and graphs.

5. Seek out orientation and mobility training: Orientation and mobility training can help students who are blind or visually impaired navigate their surroundings safely and independently. This training can teach students how to use a cane, navigate with a guide dog, and travel independently using public transportation.

6. Advocate for yourself: It's important to speak up for yourself and advocate for your needs as a student who is blind or visually impaired. Don't be afraid to ask for accommodations or support when you need it.

7. Connect with other students who are blind or visually impaired: Connecting with other students who are blind or visually impaired can be a valuable source of support and information. Consider joining a support group or reaching out to other students on campus who have similar experiences.