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Graphicacy is the ability to understand and effectively use visual representations of information, such as graphs, maps, and diagrams, to communicate and make sense of information. It is linked to visual spatial abilities which are listed as the first type of intelligence as it is through the eyes that intrinsic learning begins. Just as pictures in books help sighted children develop graphicacy, tactile graphics help children who need information presented in a nonvisual modality to develop tactile graphicacy. Access to tactile graphics is not enough for a blind or low vision child to develop tactile graphicacy. Mediated learning, concept development, and explicit instruction all tools in a teacher s tool box are required, as are access to a large variety of tactile graphics and a team approach to implementing tactile graphics in the curriculum. This presentation will discuss the importance of both sides of tactile graphicacy understanding and creating tactile graphics, why a team approach is needed in the development of tactile graphicacy, and preliminary findings surrounding methods to support blind and low vision learners development of spatial abilities. Learning Objectives1.Participants will learn methods that support the development of spatial abilities in blind and low vision learners through the use of tactile graphics.2.Participants will be able to identify and implement effective teaching techniques for developing tactile graphicacy skills in blind and low vision learners, enhancing their students' ability to understand and create tactile graphics.3.Participants will be able to explain the significance of both understanding and creating tactile graphics in supporting the learning needs of blind and low vision students.4.Participants will recognize the importance of collaboration among educators, specialists, and families in developing tactile graphicacy for blind and low vision learners. |
