The article stresses the need for systematic studies on the effectiveness and utility of products designed for the visually handicapped and identifies exemplary procedures and common methodological problems (using 7 Optacon--Optical to Tactile Converter--studies as a basis). Research methodology is discussed in terms of sampling techniques, data…

The value of genetic counseling for prospective parents with visual impairments is discussed. Work in genetic counseling is reviewed and the types of monitoring services available are explored. The development of genetics, and the kinds of genetic disorders, as well as the importance of genetic counseling, are described. (PHR)

Recent literature concerning visual handicaps of mentally handicapped people is reviewed. Topic areas considered are etiology and epidemiology, visual acuity, color vision, and educational techniques. (Author)

With the growing popularity of sports among children, attention must be given to the increased number of eye injuries associated with mass participation. (SBH)

Addresses the importance of quality science instruction for students with visual impairments. Discusses literature-based suggestions for modifying science instruction and instructional materials to meet the learning needs of visually impaired students and presents relevant examples in physical, chemical, and biological sciences. Addresses policy…

This article reviews 66 studies which used applied behavior analysis to change the behaviors of students with visual disabilities. It documents the participants, targeted behaviors, procedures used, outcomes, and follow-up. The article offers recommendations for future researchers on the selection of subjects, target behaviors, appropriate…

Describes cortical visual impairment (CVI) as a complex condition that is not an eye condition but a brain condition. Cautions practitioners that children with CVI do not exhibit similar behaviors, that a single approach does not work for all children, and that treatment is a dynamic process. (CR)

Presents an acoustical model and evidence from four experiments that children with visual impairments use the buildup of low-frequency sound along walls to guide locomotion. The model differs from the concept of echolocation by emphasizing sound that is ambient, rather than self-produced, and of low frequency. (Author/CR)

Examines the assumption that the parvocellular system is suppressed by the magnocellular system during saccadic eye movements and that this visual deficit is associated with dyslexia. Evidence from six studies indicates the magnocellular system is suppressed during saccadic eye movements, disproving the magnocellular deficit theory of dyslexia.…

This article identifies the visually handicapped population, discusses their special educational needs, and considers the educational program in terms of their assessment, placement, individualized education programs, and needs for educational aids. (CB)

The article identifies federal agencies which have been major sources of data for organizations providing services to blind and visually impaired persons, describes recent and possible changes in data collection and reporting, and cites organizations that watch the changing status of federal disability statistics. (MC)

Discusses career counseling for visually impaired students. Counselors can help reverse damaging employment stereotypes and help students succeed in the work world by using a positive approach and focusing on abilities and factual conditions. (JAC)

Researchers of physiological factors resulting in reading disabilities have studied intelligence, prenatal and postnatal influences, sensory factors such as adequate visual, hearing, and tactile functioning, and genetic predetermination. Chronic health problems which cause frequent absences from school can also result in lower achievement. (JN)

Children who are blind are among the most easily mainstreamed of children with handicaps. The child with visual impairments is in need of an educational program which will meet all the students' needs, including those resulting from the visual condition. (JN)

The article reviews the literature on listening as an effective learning skill for the visually handicapped, and suggests ways of helping visually handicapped students to improve their listening skills. (Author/DLS)