Using a Monocular (for students)
Monoculars are a useful distance viewing aid for use in and outside the classroom. For students to become proficient in using the monocular start by focussing on different pictures/objects on the board and walls of the classroom. Practice looking for objects in the playground.
Once the student becomes proficient in using the monocular, introduce tracking along a line of words before copying from the board. Teachers and students will need to have realistic expectations about the amount of information to be copied and for large amounts of text alternate methods should be explored.
Using a monocular
- If you use glasses, put them on (unless otherwise instructed).
- Position yourself to face the object you want to view. Use landmarks (eg tree in the foreground; top left corner of white board) to help pinpoint the object you wish to see through the monocular.
- Hold the monocular with the rubber end as close as possible to your better eye, but without actually touching it. If you are wearing glasses, the rubber end of the monocular should be folded down and rest the monocular lightly against the glasses
- Steady the monocular with your other hand.
- Focus the monocular by using your steadying hand to turn the ridged barrel until the object becomes clear. If the object remains blurry, continue to turn the barrel back in the other direction.
- Practise focussing on objects at different distances until you become more proficient.
Copying from the board
- Follow steps 1-5 above and move to the best position for viewing the information on the board.
- Place the monocular in your non-writing hand.
- Use borders or line numbers to locate the information to be copied.
- Read two to three words at a time to increase copying speed.
- Use borders or line numbers to re-locate position on the board.
Tips for teachers
The following tips will help the student locate and read/copy information from the board:
- Ensure print is large, clear and well spaced.
- Use black or blue on light coloured boards or white or yellow on dark coloured boards. Check with the student to decide on best colours to use.
- Number each line of writing as this will help the student navigate the board.
- Reduce glare on the board by using blinds or curtains.
Contact us
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Vision Australia is a living partnership between people who are blind, sighted or have low vision. We are united by our passion that in the future people who are blind or have low vision will have access to and fully participate in every part of life they choose.
This page last updated: 06 November 2009