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Introduction
Visual impairment refers to a condition in which a person experiences a partial or complete loss of vision, affecting their ability to see and perceive the world around them. It is important to recognize that visual impairment is not a single, uniform condition, but rather a diverse spectrum of visual impairments that can vary in severity and impact.
The objective of this webpage is to provide resources that will not only help you empathize with visually impaired persons, but also empower you to foster an inclusive space. What will you learn? You will be able to
Empathize with persons with visual impairment
Analyze different scenarios to help a person with a visual impairment
Learn different tips to create an inclusive space for a person with a visual impairment
Implement strategies after reading and watching inspiring stories and initiatives in India
Empathizing
Let's empathize toward Visually impaired peers through these interactive video based activities. Try to figure out what are the correct alternatives, and select the action that is appropriate for the situation. Do not forget to view your score afterwards!
Inclusivity
In this section, you will engage in a learning by Doing activity where you think about the steps to be taken within each of these scenarios. This will help you think honestly about your PwD classmates and pupils when you are given additional questions to check your understanding.
Scenario 1. How to Walk With a Blind Person.mp4Scenario 1: How to walk with a stranger or friend who has visual impairment
When walking with a visually impaired person, offer your arm, describe obstacles and turns using clear language, and prioritize their safety. Be supportive, ask for their preferences, and maintain a steady pace.
Scenario 2 How to be inclusive towards a visually impaired student as a teacher.mp4Scenario 2: How to be inclusive towards a visually impaired student as a teacher
To be inclusive towards visually impaired students as a teacher, provide accessible materials, use descriptive language, create a conducive environment, and address individual needs. Promote collaboration, participation, and communicate empathetically.
Copy of Scenario 3 Trim How to be inclusive in a group project.mp4Scenario 3: How to be inclusive in a group project
To be inclusive in group project, promote equal participation, respect diverse perspectives, provide support, and encourage effective communication to foster inclusivity in group projects.
One small step
Go through the infographics to learn about some of the difficulties experienced by the visually impaired and how to be inclusive by offering assistance when required.
Inspiring stories
There are many remarkable individuals who are visually impaired and have made profound contributions to the world. Their stories resonate with strength, resilience, and the significance of communal encouragement in their lives. Let us draw inspiration from the empowering narratives of visually impaired individuals who have triumphed over diverse obstacles to attain their aspirations.:
Inspiring Story of Savitri Gupta
In episode 5 of Alag Hain Kam Nahi, we meet Savitri Gupta, IIT Bombay's first visually impaired female Ph.D. student. She talks about the stereotypes and ableism she has faced. Savitri is a human rights researcher and she advocates for orphan and disabled communities. She shares her lived experiences of self-advocating for accommodations, accessibility, and having agency in her life.
How blind-friendly is India’s capital? | BBC News India
What’s life like when darkness and blackness are concepts that don’t mean anything to you? How do you navigate through a bustling city like India’s capital, when you can use all your senses except sight? In this short documentary, 28-year-old Ram Singh takes us on a journey to show us Delhi through his eyes.
Inside an Inspiring School in India | National Geographic
In West Bengal, India, a residential school for young people with visual impairments is providing its students with not just hope but also joy. Some would face a bleak life if not for the care and instruction that they’re receiving. Faculty and staff guide the children through a rich curriculum of classroom learning, skills training, music, and even cricket and other sports.
Let us get inspired by powerful stories of PwD individuals who have overcome different challenges to achieve their goals.
Mahesh's story: Combating challenges: Read the story of Mahesh who is visually impaired, belongs to Jodhpur, and wants to become a teacher. The harsh and sandy climate of this village, and the fact that it’s 180 km away from the nearest town, has kept education out of reach for most children. Read how he took up that challenge and set an example.
Vidya's Determination to Succeed in Academics: Born blind, Vidhya Y was discouraged to take up Maths and Science by telling her to take an 'easy way out.' However, her sheer determination and hard work made her graduate at the top of her class at the International Institute of Informational Technology in Bengaluru.
Additional Resources
Blindness, visual impairment & their causes in India: Results of a nationally representative survey. Avoidable blindness is a significant public health problem in India. Nationally representative RAAB surveys (Rapid Assessment of Avoidable Blindness) are being conducted periodically in the country to know the current status of blindness in the country. The current study describes the findings from the RAAB survey conducted during 2015–19 in India.
Ideas to Implement
What to do when you meet a blind person
Tips for teaching sports to visually impaired students
How to work with a visually impaired colleague
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