Karin Edigkaufer & Dagmar Hetzke Development of an Orientation and Mobility (O&M) Assessment Tool for SfS Teachers

Contents Introduction A Look at the O&M Assessment Tool Aims Next Steps

Introduction What is Orientation and Mobility (O&M)? O&M is part of the social skills curriculum for visually impaired students.

Introduction Orientation is the ability to determine ones position in space. Mobility refers to the ability of a visually impaired person to move safely, independently and efficiantly through his or her environment.

The SfS O&M Assessment Tool Is designed to be used by every SfS educator Covers all age groups (0-3, 4-7, 8-10, 11-14, 15+)‏ Can be used for children with all kinds of disability (multiply handicapped, crippled, hard of hearing, blind and partially sighted)‏ Gives an immediate overview of the strenghts and weaknesses regarding all aspects of O&M

The SfS O&M Assessment Tool

Aims of the O&M Assessment Tool Encourage regular O&M Evaluation of all SfS students Enhance quality of student IEPs regarding O&M Faciltate communication about O&M needs between SfS educator and parents Promote communication about O&M needs between SfS educator and SfS O&M specialists Introduce O&M standards for the SfS

Next Steps Complete the O&M assessment tool for all age groups Present the tool in teachers conference Have SfS educators try out the tool Evaluate the O&M assessment tool