A Learning Media Assessment (LMA) is a comprehensive evaluation tool that assesses how students with visual impairments learn and access information. The purpose of an LMA is to determine the most appropriate learning media for each individual student, which can include Braille, large print, audio books, or a combination of these.
An LMA is typically conducted by a teacher of students with visual impairments (TVI) and is typically included as part of the Functional Vision Assessment (FVA). The assessment may also include observations of the student’s functional use of vision in activities of daily living, as well as their preferences and learning style.
The Learning Media Assessment will also assess a student’s preferred learning channel. Some students with visual impairments may also prefer visual learning; they may learn best when using their vision, even though their vision may be compromised in some way. The LMA will also then likely make a note of eye fatigue or other factors that affect their ability to learn visually.
Other students may prefer auditory learning, where they learn best through hearing information. Tactile learners may prefer hands-on activities to understand and retain information; this type of learning is especially important for kids with deafblindness and/or multiple disabilities and visual impairment. The TVI will provide a variety of learning opportunities and assess the student’s engagement and success in each to determine their preferred learning channel. Understanding a student’s preferred learning channel will help educators provide targeted instruction and support to help them reach their full potential.
The Learning Media Assessment should also include a statement about whether or not braille is appropriate for the student. Remember, IDEA assumes that all students with visual impairments would benefit from braille. So, the team should also assume that braille would benefit the student. If the student would not benefit from braille, the Learning Media Assessment should give adequate evidence to support that assertion.
The results of an LMA are used to create an individualized education plan (IEP) that includes appropriate accommodations and support for the student’s specific needs. This may include specialized instruction, materials, and equipment such as Braille or large print textbooks, audio books, and assistive technology. Additionally, orientation and mobility training can help students with visual impairments navigate their environment safely and independently. This assessment can provide valuable information about the student’s learning style and needs, and can help to ensure that the appropriate accommodations and support are provided to help them succeed in their education.
We have very gifted Independence Specialist on our team here at SBES. An Independence Specialist is a one-on-one support professional for a visually impaired student. They are trained in braille codes, assistive technology, and other areas of the expanded core curriculum. They help ensure accessibility, including material preparation. An Independence Specialist’s main goal is to help the student become as independent as possible.
