BVI Program - Self-Determination

Self determination includes choice-making, decision-making, problem solving, personal advocacy, assertiveness, and goal setting. Students with visual impairments often have fewer opportunities to develop and practice the specific skills that lead to self-determination. Students who know and value who they are and who have self-determination skills become effective advocates for themselves and therefore have more control over their lives (TSBVI, 2014).

img: https://ncld.org/research/agents-of-their-own-success-self-advocacy-skills-and-self-determination-for-students-with-disabilities-in-the-era-of-personalized-learning/

“The components of self-determination that are considered important for individuals with visual impairments include:

■ self-knowledge—developing personal preferences, needs, and desires”

“■ awareness of individual rights and responsibilities—possessing knowledge of laws protecting people with disabilities

■ capacity to make informed choices—knowing what to do in an emergency, being able to express one’s likes and dislikes

■ problem-solving and goal-setting skills—making personal and educational goals and interacting with others to obtain assistance

■ ability to engage in self-regulated and self-directed behavior—developing negotiation skills and skills involved in interacting with others and the public at large

■ self-advocacy and empowerment—choosing favorite or desired activities and being able to evaluate one’s own behavior or progress

■ assertiveness skills—being able to advocate for one’s needs and wants”

Excerpt From: Carol B. Allman and Sandra Lewis, Editors. “ECC Essentials: Teaching the Expanded Core Curriculum to Students with Visual Impairments.” Apple Books.

Teaching Your Child About Self-Advocacy; APH Connect

vision statements: how do you explain your vision impairment to someone who is sighted or just doesn't get it?

link to paths to literacy: promoting independence through high expectations

link to paths to literacy: self-determination skills as students prepare for transitions