Multisensory learning for blind or low vision learners in the chemistry laboratory

AEI 34

Cary Supalo, cas380@psu.edu, Department of Chemistry, Penn State, 104 Chemistry Research Building, Box 280, University Park, PA 16802
The goal of the Independent Laboratory Access for the Blind (ILAB) project is to develop tools and techniques that enable a multi-sensory learning experience for low vision students in chemistry laboratories. This study includes other branches of science curricula, in order to formulate a series of standards for ILAB tool implementation into residential and mainstream science curricula. It is expected that a hands-on experience for students with low vision will encourage these underrepresented populations to consider career paths in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). This is being accomplished with talking laboratory probes and hardware audio devices that allow students with low vision to have a more hands-on approach when conducting laboratory activities. Assessment will involve attitudinal surveys pertaining to science, administered both pre- and post-year, as well as observations concerning social interaction with peers and self-efficacy with laboratory tools and procedures.