General Classroom Accommodations for Low Vision Students

 

 

Some classroom accommodations are simple fixes. Let’s look at some of them.  (the Center for Students with Disabilities (CSD) can help with these.)

 

  • Provide large print reading materials, (e.g., syllabi, handouts, signs, equipment labels, books) Large print is considered as 16-18 pt bold face type – although some students may need larger.

 

  • Utilize or create print materials that use a plain typeface such as Arial. Simple typeface fonts are easier to read than typeface that has fancy serifs.

 

  • Give front row or preferential seating in well-lit areas with full view of instructor, visual aids, white boards, etc. Seats should preferably not be near windows to eliminate glare.

blurry image of classroom white board

  • Face the class when speaking and repeat questions from students in the class.

 

  • Overhead transparencies are more readable if they are in a large, bold-face, simple font with simple spaced lines. Pastel colors are hard to read. White letters on dark backgrounds are usually easier to read. 

 

  • Provide class assignments in alternative formats; CD or other electronic format. (The Center for Students with Disabilities can help with this!)

 

  • Allow computers with screen magnification or speech output.

 

  • Allow the use of recorders, note taking devices and/or laptop computers for note taking.

 

  • Allow recording of lectures and class discussions.

 

  • Allow the use of a reader or scribe for classroom assignments and/or tests.

 

  •  Allow extended time for exams if requested and deemed an appropriate accommodation.  (The Center for Students with Disabilities can arrange this!)

 

  • Give verbal descriptions of visual aids, graphics, drawings, etc.  If you are using an overhead projector or computer projections such as PowerPoint, describe the printed and visual content.

 

  • (See, we told you – some were simple fixes!)