Students with visual disabilities include students who may be legally blind and yet have some sight, as well as students who are totally blind. 

Students who are blind may have been born blind or have become blind as adults or teenagers.  Generally, blind students have no sight and may or may not have light perception.  These students face an academic environment that relies upon printed material and information technology that has done little to make resources available in a format that they can use.  Typically they use readers to read textbooks and class handouts as well as to assist with exams.  Scribes can be used to write answers to exam questions or oral exams can be used.  Tape recorders are often used to take notes in class. 

Students who are legally blind are often referred to as “low vision” students.  There may be few or no obvious signs of a visual impairment.  There will be barriers when reading print material and in accessing information technology without the aid of adaptive tools.  They may also need books on tape, large print magnification devices, and tape records for class. 

Both low vision and blind students may need additional time to take exams and need the use of readers, scribes, or assistive technology.
 

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