Abstract
Purpose: :
To provide an interactive Internet resource to Assist the Development of Visually Impaired Students through Online Resources (ADVISOR).
Methods: :
The ADVISOR project leveraged a group effort comprised of 12 New England agencies for children who are blind or visually impaired. Factual information sets, educational multimedia teaching modules and interactive simulations were authored and produced to facilitate communication among the caregivers – parents, teachers and doctors. Emerging electronic and Internet technologies were used to enhance the bi–directional exchange of information between the information provider and the online viewer.
Results: :
The ADVISOR is at http://www.e–advisor.us. The live webcast of the 2nd Annual ADVISOR Workshop produced the informational content for the online Professional Assessments modules and the Child’s Assessment Chart. The medical assessments included: Electrophysiology, Visual fields and function, and Low vision management and devices. The educational assessments included: Developmental assessment, Learning media assessment, Expanded core curriculum, Orientation and mobility, Environmental adaptation, Transition to adult life and Assistive technology. The new interactive Visual Fields tutorial has been well received as an electronic educational tool for multi–disciplinary professionals. The Doctor’s Information Resource continues to be updated. New England state–by–state Act Sheets have been created to provide a step–by–step plan for families when a child is first diagnosed with a visual impairment. Really Simple Syndication (RSS) has been adopted and incorporated into the ADVISOR website to enhance the dedicated dissemination of viewer–preferred information.
Conclusions: :
The ADVISOR e–Collaborative strives to provide informed ophthalmic care through better communication among parents, teachers and eye doctors. Rapidy advancing electronic technologies on the Internet forecast unlimited opportunities for improved and new ways of learning to benefit disabled individuals. The online ADVISOR is an informational resource that creates a self–sustainable cycle of knowledge.
Keywords: infant vision • learning • visual development: infancy and childhood