To receive educational services from a teacher specializing in visual impairments (TVI), a student must have a visual impairment that meets the definition of blindness or low vision as defined by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). According to IDEA, blindness is defined as visual acuity of 20/200 or less in the better eye with correction or visual field less than 20 degrees in the better eye. Low vision is defined as visual acuity between 20/70 and 20/200 in the better eye with correction, or visual field between 5 and 19 degrees in the better eye.
Referral for services
Once a student has been determined to be eligible for services, he or she will typically be referred to a TVI by the student's Individualized Education Program (IEP) team. The IEP team is composed of the student, parents, teachers, and other professionals who are involved in the student's education.
Evaluation by the TVI
The TVI will conduct an evaluation of the student's visual impairment to determine the extent of the impairment and to identify any specific needs that the student may have. The evaluation may include a variety of tests, such as:
- Visual acuity testing
- Visual field testing
- Color vision testing
- Stereo acuity testing
- Functional vision assessment
Development of an Individualized Education Program (IEP)
Based on the results of the evaluation, the TVI will work with the student's IEP team to develop an IEP. The IEP will outline the student's specific educational needs and the services that will be provided to meet those needs. The IEP will also identify the specific goals and objectives that the student is expected to achieve during the school year.
Provision of services
The TVI will provide a variety of services to the student, such as:
- Instruction in braille
- Orientation and mobility training
- Assistive technology training
- Adapted physical education
- Educational support
The TVI will work closely with the student's other teachers and professionals to ensure that the student is receiving a comprehensive education that meets his or her individual needs.