Dr.Lihalin Choudhury

Dr.Sharmistha Behera

Abstract

Observational study,To assess blind education in western odisha by testing severity of visual impairment and blindness in blind school's children,their daily functioning,social engagements,existing infrastructure,teaching methods,challenges faced in providing inclusive education.
Methods: Total 344 students from 9 blind schools of western odisha were surveyed.Data collected on WHO disability criteria,availability of braille books,audio resources,assistive devices.Teaching methods including tactile learning techniques and technology integration were also explored.
Result:Majority were categorised as blind as perWHOcriteria(86.3%)while 13.7%were severly visualy impaired.Assistive devices were used by 90%students.5 out of 9 schools employed audio resources ,recent technologies in classrooms.Eight schools provided braille books.
Conclusion:Technologies have positive efforts towards inclusive education.Insight to policymakers,NGOs,educational institutes for developing strategies.