EDSP 656 - Braille Reading and Writing
Prerequisites: EDSP 650 and EDSP 655
Credit Hours: (3)
Provides basic instruction on transcription of advanced Braille codes, including: music, foreign language, chemistry, computer Braille, and Nemeth Code (Braille math code). Introduces techniques for teaching skills in each code. Explores technology tools used to create Braille and tactile materials in addition to other assistive technologies used for instruction in math and science.
Detailed Description of Content of Course
This course as described above will include the following topics:
Detailed Description of Conduct of Course
This course is delivered on-line. Learning activities in this class will include the following:
1. Class lecture, discussion, and participation via synchronous face to face, web-conferences or videoconferences
2. Video and other relevant interactive media presentations
3. Application activities, including regular assignments
4. Written responses to posted discussion questions posted on D2L.
5. In-depth study and work on course requirements which require significant outside class time.
Goals and Objectives of the Course
This course is part of the Virginia Department of Education approved licensure program in Visual Impairment and is offered through the Statewide Training Consortium in Visual Impairment.
Goals, objectives, and assignments in this class address NCATE Standard 1b Pedagogical Content Knowledge and Skills, 1c Professional and Pedagogical Knowledge and Skills, and 1d Student Learning for Teacher Candidates. The following CEC and VDOE standard areas are also addressed:
This course is designed to enable students to:
1. demonstrate basic understanding of reading and writing contracted Braille using the following Braille codes:
a. Nemeth Code
b. Braille Code for Chemical Notation
c. Computer Braille Code
d. Foreign Language
e. Phonetics and Diacritical Markings
f. Music Braille Code
2. demonstrate knowledge of materials and instructional strategies for teaching mathematics and science to students with visual disabilities using the following devices:
a. abacus
b. talking calculator
c. computer technology
d. adapted science equipment
3. demonstrate knowledge of basic guidelines for production of tactile graphics including:
a. production methods
b. tools and equipment
c. Strategies for teaching the reading of tactile graphics to students.
4. Demonstrate knowledge of materials and instructional strategies for teaching reading and writing of literary Braille
Assessment Measures
1. Mid-term Exam
2. Weekly Braille Nemeth Code Transcription which will include at least two samples of Tactile Graphics
3. Weekly lesson plans.
4. Participation in weekly on-line discussions which require knowledge and application from readings.
5. Final Project. For each item below, you must develop a lesson plan, teach the lesson, collect data on child performance in response to the lesson, and write a reflection on your planning, instruction, and results.
a. Braille production of a children’s book
b. Braille reading lesson plan
c. Braille mathematics lesson plan
d. Braille codes for science, music, math or foreign language
6. Response to Case Study: Identify the issues presented in the case study, recommend possible solutions, and develop a plan for addressing the child’s Braille reading and writing needs.
Other Course Information
None
Review and Approval
2/27/09 New Course Elizabeth Altieri