STUDENT INTERVIEWS

You may find your student who is blind or has low vision needs opportunities to respond to direct questions or to ask for clarification in a quiet and welcoming environment. Questions focusing on social needs and self esteem are particularly important due to the very nature of any degree of vision loss. As vision loss may impede interpersonal communication skills and social and emotional growth you need to be alert to the way your student interacts with peers particularly in social settings. Misunderstanding can result in difficulties interacting with peers or the student feeling a sense of frustration and isolation. All students need a sense of belonging. The student who is visually impaired may need a little additional support to build that social network.

Sample Questions

• Who are you playing with/forming friendships with?

• Are you enjoying lunch/recess breaks? Are you aware of the kinds of things you might do at lunch time/recess (such as clubs, sports, games, etc.)? Do you know how to get involved in these activities?

• Do you feel at times that you need someone to talk to? Do you know who you can ask for help?

• How well do you think the buddy system is working?

• Are there any things I need to know about any technology or aids that you use?

• If you could change some things about the classroom/school what would they be?

• Are you comfortable working with the Braillist/teaching assistant?

• Do you feel comfortable letting me know when you need help? Is there a way we can be sure I know that you need help?

• Let us review what we have done and are planning to do.
• What do you feel you most need to work on?

• Are there any questions you would like to ask or anything you think I should know to help you learn better?