Disturbed vision is an important factor that can account for pupils struggling with reading and learning and teachers have little insight into this issue. Due to the lack of recources in the health system and the lack of attention given to vision in society at large, many countries such as Tanzania, do not have mandatory vision screening. The Liv-project will develop two research-based programmes of study for teachers to ensure a more inclusive and better education for all. The goal is to reach out to all levels of the school system and disseminate competencies on the role of vision for learning.
LiV's main activities:
1. Establish a CPD course for in-service teachers at Patandi Teachers College for Special Needs in cooperation with Tanzania Institute of Education.
2. Launch a master's programme in Special Needs at the University of Dodoma, building on their existing bachelor's programme in Special Needs.
3. Conduct research on visual needs in schools and on teachers' competencies development.
Students will receive instruction in assessing vision, stimulation and educational methods and cooperation with the health system,thus learning why pupils struggle in school and how vision connects to learning. All graduates will be qualified in vision screening,supervise parents and teachers and refer pupils to eye specialists. Depending on their level of specialization, they will work inschools, assessment centres or special school units. Master’s students can pursue PhDs, work as tutors in teacher’s colleges orlecturers in universities, ensuring the project’s long-term sustainability.
Because reading is the most vision-intensive activity learned in school, teachers with competencies in vision can supervisecolleagues in educational methods, and ensure that more pupils stay in school, graduate and get education and work.
Experienced vision teachers from the Vision 2030-project, SecEd, at Patandi are an important resource for this next step ofskills-building in Tanzania.
