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

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

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

4. 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.

5. 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

6. The SfS O&M Assessment Tool

7. 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

8. 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