A Functional Vision Assessment (FVA) is an important evaluation tool for students with visual impairments. It is designed to assess a student’s visual abilities, including how well they see and use their vision in a functional way in their daily life.
FVAs are typically conducted by a teacher of students with visual impairments (TVI), and may include a range of assessments such as visual acuity, visual field, and contrast sensitivity. The assessment may also include observations of the student’s functional use of vision in activities of daily living, such as reading, writing, and navigating the environment. It might also include an assessment for neurological visual impairment (CVI). Typically, the Learning Media Assessment (LMA) is included in the Functional Vision Assessment .
The results of an FVA 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 like Braille or large print textbooks, audio books, and assistive technology. Specialized instruction will be done through goals, and the IEP will also outline service minutes and delivery methods. Additionally, orientation and mobility training can help students with visual impairments navigate their environment safely and independently.
It is important to ensure that students with visual impairments receive a comprehensive Functional Vision Assessment . This assessment can provide valuable information about the student’s abilities and needs, and can help to ensure that the appropriate accommodations and support are provided to help them succeed in their education.
A comprehensive Functional Vision Assessment will set the foundation for appropriate services and goals. It will include a statement of eligibility (whether or not the student qualifies for specialized instruction) as well as outline recommendations for addressing the impact of the visual impairment.
SBES has been successfully helping students since 2015. As partners with educational agencies, SBES, Inc. provides reliable school-based vision related services, founded on evidence-based practices, for students from birth to age 22.
