Our Braille Philosophy

 

USDB Braille Philosophy

 

When do we teach braille?

 

When an Individualized Education Program (IEP) team determines a student needs braille to access their education,  USDB is committed to ensuring students gain these critical and life changing skills. The IEP team uses the best industry assessments to determine the appropriate literacy media for students with a vision impairment. 

 

How do we teach Braille and what tools do we use? 

 

Teaching literacy uses the same instructional strategies whether a student is learning braille or print. Because reading and writing are fundamental skills that contribute to a successful adulthood, it is important that students learn crucial foundational skills to become fluent readers. After pre-braille skills, braille readers begin by learning to read and write letters, words, and sentences. Once a student is able to read fluently, they then learn to read special contractions that make reading and writing braille more efficient. Students learn the use of the Perkins Braille Writer and important technologies in order to read and produce braille.

 

How does braille fit in with all education?

 

The Utah School for the Blind uses many teaching techniques and methods in the education of blind children.  For many students, braille is a cornerstone upon which we build the foundation for learning. Braille brings the General Core Curriculum and the Expanded Core Curriculum together so that students can access all of their education. 

 

The End Goal

As a state leader in vision programs and services, the Utah School for the Blind provides quality educational, family, and community-based instruction and experiences to prepare children who are blind or visually impaired for a rich and fulfilling adult life. Braille and the Expanded Core Curriculum are the tools we use to fulfill this vision.