Vision Impaired (VI) learners have the same potential to attain and achieve as other pupils, if provided with an appropriate level of support and access to the curriculum.  A collaborative educational initiative by Angel Eyes NI and Ulster University developed a new programme for Classroom Assistants (CAs) supporting children with Vision Impairment.  The funded 10-week Level 4 University accredited programme used blended learning including online lectures and workshops, with topics covered including VI & Education; Assistive technology; Supporting independent learning; Adapting learning materials; and Modifications for the learning environment.

Initially promoted to 40 schools across Northern Ireland, a total of 20 CAs from various schools, both special educational needs and mainstream enrolled on the programme. Our Empatheyes Virtual Reality Visual Impairment Simulator was used as part of the learning experience to demonstrate a classroom scene, as viewed by someone with visual impairment. An evaluation of the programme revealed^[1]:

^[1] https://www.angeleyesni.org/s/UU-and-AENI-Final-report.pdf

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The VR was so powerful to get understanding of a visual impairment…no amount of words could give you that information. Classroom Assistant

• Increase in the self-reported perception of knowledge of visual impairment after the course was most evident in the group with the least experience
• Increase in knowledge of how VI can cause various challenges in accessing the curriculum and how best to modify this with most people reporting their current knowledge at level 5 (Very Good). Participants with the least experience, demonstrated the greatest gain.
• Increase in confidence in supporting a child with a visual impairment also increase with the most notable increase in the group with the least experience
• 75% of programme participants found it useful overall to their CA role
• 100% of programme participants found that their expectation levels were met