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Using Braille Writing Tools for Students with Visual Impairment

Inclusive education means every child should have the opportunity to learn in the same classroom, even if they have disabilities. For students who are blind or have very low vision, Braille writing tools are extremely important. These tools help them read and write using raised dots that they can feel with their fingers. This system allows them to access textbooks, take notes, and express their ideas like everyone else. Braille is a system of raised dots that represent letters, numbers, and symbols. Students use their fingers to read it and tools like the Perkins Brailler, slate and stylus, and Braille notetakers to write. The Perkins Brailler works like a typewriter, pressing different keys to create Braille letters. A slate and stylus are a portable tool used to write Braille manually. 

Braille notetakers are advanced tools that work like tablets with Braille keyboards and speech output. These tools allow students to complete school tasks, participate in class, and build literacy skills. They promote independence, especially when students can write homework or read test papers in Braille without needing help. 

However, these tools are not without challenges. Learning Braille can be difficult for students who lose vision later in life. It takes time and practice to develop finger sensitivity. Also, not every school has enough resources to buy expensive tools like notetakers. Another problem is that some learning materials are not available in Braille. For example, if a teacher only gives handouts in printed form, the visually impaired student cannot access the content unless it is translated into Braille. Teachers must prepare learning materials in Braille or work with support staff to ensure the student doesn’t fall behind. 

Lastly, some teachers may not know how to support a student using Braille tools. They may need extra training to understand how Braille works and how to include students in classroom activities fairly. Research shows that Braille literacy leads to better academic and career outcomes. According to Ryles (1996), students who learned Braille early performed better in school and were more likely to find jobs as adults. Similarly, the National Federation of the Blind (2011) reported that over 90% of blind adults who are employed are Braille readers. UNESCO (2017) also emphasized that making learning materials available in Braille is essential for inclusive education. Without access to Braille, blind students cannot read or write independently, which reduces their chances of succeeding in school. These studies show how important it is for schools to provide Braille tools and support Braille learning from an early age. 

Braille writing tools are especially appropriate for students who are completely blind or have very low vision. They help students become literate, just like sighted students learn to read and write.  However, for students who still have some vision, tools like magnifiers or large print books might be better. It depends on the student’s needs. In a nutshell, Braille writing tools are powerful and necessary tools for blind students. They support literacy, independence, and equal access to education. Teachers, schools, and families must work together to provide these tools and ensure all students are included in the classroom.

References:

 • National Federation of the Blind. (2011). The Braille literacy crisis in America. Retrieved from https://nfb.org/images/nfb/documents/pdf/Braille_literacy_report_web.pdf

 • Ryles, R. (1996). The impact of Braille reading skills on employment, income, education, and independence. Journal of Visual Impairment & Blindness, 90(3), 219–226.

 • UNESCO. (2017).