Start Date
16-6-2025 10:00 AM
End Date
16-6-2025 11:30 AM
Abstract
Introduction Orientation and Mobility (O&M) encompasses essential skills for independent travel and community participation for individuals with visual impairments. O&M training, including over 350 internship hours, equips professionals to teach skills like cane techniques and community travel (ACVREP, 2024). However, little research has explored internship experiences that best support skill acquisition. Short-term programs, such as week-long sports camps, may address gaps in traditional internships through experiential learning.
Methodology This qualitative study examined the experiences of seven O&M interns and seven youth athletes with visual impairments during a one-week sports camp. The data sources consisted of written accounts, observational notes, and focus group discussions.
Results Three key themes emerged as a result of data analysis: (1) experiential learning and skill development; (2) instructional strategies promoting independence; (3) challenges and barriers to O&M skill acquisition.
Conclusions Data from this study highlights the importance of experiential learning and collaborative instruction in O&M internships, particularly within a multidisciplinary camp setting. The integration of adaptive physical education (APE) specialists and O&M interns allowed for skill development among athletes with visual impairments, enhancing both their O&M abilities and confidence. The use of tools such as tactile maps and a collaborative approach reinforced the value of universal design for learning (UDL) in inclusive education. However, barriers such as unclear intern roles, limited individualized guidance, and concerns about meeting Academy of Certification of Vision Rehabilitation and Education Professionals (ACVREP) competencies suggest areas for improvement. Structured preparation and clearer communication before camp could better support O&M interns and enhance outcomes.
Recommended Citation
Lytle, Benjamin; Ericson, Katie; Lieberman, Lauren; Beach, Pamela; and Parker, Amy, "The Exploration of an Orientation and Mobility Internship Program at a Summer Sports Camp for Children who are Visually Impaired" (2025). International Symposium of Adapted Physical Activity and International Symposium on Physical Activity and Visual Impairment and Deafblindness. 3.
https://sword.mtu.ie/isapa/2025/day1/3
The Exploration of an Orientation and Mobility Internship Program at a Summer Sports Camp for Children who are Visually Impaired
Introduction Orientation and Mobility (O&M) encompasses essential skills for independent travel and community participation for individuals with visual impairments. O&M training, including over 350 internship hours, equips professionals to teach skills like cane techniques and community travel (ACVREP, 2024). However, little research has explored internship experiences that best support skill acquisition. Short-term programs, such as week-long sports camps, may address gaps in traditional internships through experiential learning.
Methodology This qualitative study examined the experiences of seven O&M interns and seven youth athletes with visual impairments during a one-week sports camp. The data sources consisted of written accounts, observational notes, and focus group discussions.
Results Three key themes emerged as a result of data analysis: (1) experiential learning and skill development; (2) instructional strategies promoting independence; (3) challenges and barriers to O&M skill acquisition.
Conclusions Data from this study highlights the importance of experiential learning and collaborative instruction in O&M internships, particularly within a multidisciplinary camp setting. The integration of adaptive physical education (APE) specialists and O&M interns allowed for skill development among athletes with visual impairments, enhancing both their O&M abilities and confidence. The use of tools such as tactile maps and a collaborative approach reinforced the value of universal design for learning (UDL) in inclusive education. However, barriers such as unclear intern roles, limited individualized guidance, and concerns about meeting Academy of Certification of Vision Rehabilitation and Education Professionals (ACVREP) competencies suggest areas for improvement. Structured preparation and clearer communication before camp could better support O&M interns and enhance outcomes.