What do you mean by plus curriculum? Discuss plus curriculum for learners with visual impairment.

The term "plus curriculum" refers to an expanded or enhanced curriculum designed to meet the unique learning needs of students with disabilities, including learners with visual impairments. The plus curriculum goes beyond the standard academic curriculum to address the specific challenges and requirements of students with visual impairments, aiming to provide a comprehensive and inclusive educational experience.

For learners with visual impairments, the plus curriculum encompasses various components tailored to their individual needs and abilities. These components may include:

1. Accessible Materials: One of the primary focuses of the plus curriculum for learners with visual impairments is ensuring access to educational materials in formats that are accessible to them. This may involve providing textbooks, worksheets, and other learning materials in braille, large print, audio, or electronic formats. Accessible materials enable visually impaired students to independently access and engage with the curriculum.

2. Orientation and Mobility Training: Orientation and mobility (O&M) skills are crucial for students with visual impairments to navigate their physical environment safely and independently. The plus curriculum may include O&M training to teach students skills such as using a white cane, navigating indoor and outdoor spaces, and using public transportation. O&M training enhances students' mobility skills, fosters independence, and promotes full participation in school and community life.

3. Assistive Technology: The plus curriculum often incorporates the use of assistive technology to support students with visual impairments in accessing information and participating in educational activities. Assistive technology tools such as screen readers, magnification software, refreshable braille displays, and digital note-taking devices enable students to access digital content, participate in online learning, and complete assignments more effectively.

4. Expanded Core Curriculum (ECC): In addition to the standard academic curriculum, the plus curriculum for learners with visual impairments includes the Expanded Core Curriculum (ECC). The ECC encompasses skills and knowledge areas that are essential for students with visual impairments to succeed in school, transition to adulthood, and lead independent lives. This may include instruction in areas such as braille literacy, adaptive technology, social skills, self-determination, independent living skills, and career education.

5. Adapted Instructional Strategies: The plus curriculum incorporates instructional strategies and accommodations that are tailored to the unique learning needs of students with visual impairments. Teachers may use multisensory approaches, tactile materials, verbal descriptions, and hands-on activities to make the curriculum more accessible and meaningful for visually impaired students. Individualized instruction and differentiated learning experiences are key components of the plus curriculum.

6. Collaboration and Support Services: The plus curriculum emphasizes collaboration among educators, support staff, and families to ensure the success of students with visual impairments. Teachers of the visually impaired (TVIs), orientation and mobility specialists, assistive technology specialists, and other professionals work together to develop and implement educational plans that meet the diverse needs of visually impaired learners. Family involvement and support are also integral to the success of the plus curriculum.

Overall, the plus curriculum for learners with visual impairments aims to promote academic achievement, independence, and full participation in educational and community life. By addressing the unique learning needs of students with visual impairments and providing appropriate supports and accommodations, the plus curriculum helps to create inclusive learning environments where all students can thrive and reach their full potential.