1. PRODUCTION OF LTSM IN BRAILLE:
A South African Perspective
Philip Jordaan: Manager Braille Services of Blind SA

2. What are LTSMs?
LTSMs are materials used to ensure that quality learning and teaching takes place in the classroom every day
Refers to ALL material that
facilitates learning
Why are LTSMs important?

3. DBE Guidelines to ensure quality education and support in special schools
On LTSM:
appropriate material must be provided for all learners in an appropriate format
The principle of one text book per learning area or subject
Schools must keep an up-to-date inventory of all types of learning and teaching materials in the school

4. DBE Guidelines to ensure quality education and support in special schools
On Material Resources:
Special schools must be equipped with appropriate, up-to-date and well maintained material resources

5. Are they successful: a short evaluation
Section 27 report “Left in the dark”
Visited 20 of 22 special schools for the visually impaired
Pupils battle without braille material, assistive devices and without teachers capable of reading and writing braille in 17 of the 22 schools
Constant shortage of Perkins braillers – learners expected to share these, even during exam time!
Due to failed tender process in 2012 of 600 CAPS books only about 150 braille adaptations currently available.
Limited capacity in schools to produce LTSMs

6. What are the solutions? The importance of braille
Braille is the only medium
that blind people can use
to become fully literate
“Finish en klaar!”

7. What are the solutions? Teacher training
Accredited training conducted by
SA Braille Authority and Blind SA
Braille Production
Currently done by Pioneer Printers
in English & Afrikaans
Blind SA in talks with
Provincial Departments

8. What are the solutions? Equipment Perkins and Tatrapoint
LTSM production in schools

9. Conclusion Need to rebuild the “institutional knowledge”
National Department to engage all stakeholders
Strong Provincial leadership
Motivated Educators with suitable training

10. Closing
Thank you!