Usher's syndrome is described, with emphasis on the visual symptomatology characteristic of retinitis pigmentosa. Also discussed are the services needed by individuals with Usher's Syndrome, the syndrome's psychosocial aspects, ways to prevent self-defeating behavior, orientation and mobility, and classroom adaptations. (JDD)

The study assessed the efficacy of a method of quantifying observations of blind clients made by orientation and mobility instructors. Client problems were observed for street crossings, bumps, stumbles, orientation, and drop-offs. (DB)

The report provides an overview of recent population figures, types of educational programs, and current issues concerning education of blind and visually impaired students in the United States, Canada, and the Caribbean. (Author/DB)

The article examines the impact of several agencies' services, both domestic and international, for education of blind and visually impaired people in Taiwan. Findings show that although educational services and programs are available, those trained often find appropriate-level jobs scarce. (DB)

The article presents an historical review of specialized education for blind and visually impaired children in India and specifically addresses the issue of mainstreaming these students into integrated settings. Data and discussion of rural education projects and teacher training programs are outlined. (Author/DB)

Eighty-eight children (either totally blind or with residual vision) estimated directions between landmarks in a large scale layout of objects. Children experienced the layout either directly by walking around it or indirectly by examining a tactile map. Use of tactile maps considerably facilitated the performance of the blind children. (Author/DB)

This study investigated the relationship between use of light rapid or light rail transit (LRT) systems by persons with severe visual impairments and independence in orientation and mobility. It found that orientation and mobility training on LRT systems would resolve many of the difficulties that users encountered. Modifications to improve…

Selected demographic data are presented on three topics: the benefits to employers for making accommodations for employees with disabilities, the impact of visual problems on social roles and health care utilization, and residential mobility patterns of Americans for geographic regions and selected states. (SW)

Review of the records of 209 institutionalized individuals with developmental disabilities who had died during a 10-year period found that the 29 individuals who exhibited severe self-injury did not live significantly shorter lives, though they did have a significantly higher incidence of vision and hearing impairments when compared to matched…

This study surveyed the use of laptop computers by 10 college students with visual impairments. Students used the computers about 10 to 15 hours a week to complete assignments as well as to take notes in class. The laptops fostered students' independence and improved their efficiency. (Author/DB)

This study examined the internal validity and reasons for false positives for the Ten Question Screen (with and without probes), used by community workers in developing nations to assess type and severity of disability. Results support the use of the screen but only if paired with measurements of hearing and visual impairments. (DB)

This report looks at demographic concepts related to persons with blindness or visual impairment, such as population changes and employment changes. A "New Demographics" is proposed which would consider the entire individual, the variety of social groups, and limitations in the social environment rather than the disability. (DB)

This article describes a successful four-year student recruitment effort initiated by Florida State University's teacher preparation program in visual disabilities. The article discusses a survey to determine the target population, use of current students to attract new ones, harnessing of campus resources, and obtaining funds for recruitment…

This paper outlines housing modification issues for both the housing consumer with visual impairments and the builder/remodeler, with emphasis on single-family housing. Suggested modifications are listed for the exterior, entrance, elevator, doors, floors, lighting and the electrical system, windows, room layout and shape, kitchen, and stairs and…

Three experiments examined the ability of blind individuals and individuals simulating the visual acuity of 20/400 to monitor the behaviors of a cane traveler in various environments and at distances between 10 feet and 25 feet. Results suggested that at least some vision is needed for instructors monitoring visually impaired individuals learning…