Teaching students with Visual Impairment in Japan with Katie Ericson
Jun 13, 2023
Navigating a career in teaching students with visual impairments (VI) is no small feat. For Katie, an experienced teacher of students with visual impairments (TVI) and orientation and mobility (O&M) specialist, the journey has been anything but ordinary. From working on military bases in Japan to pursuing her doctorate in the United States, Katie’s story offers a wealth of inspiration, practical insights, and reminders of the power of collaboration and adaptability.
Life on a Military Base as a TVI
Katie’s work on military bases in Japan offered a unique experience. The base provided a close-knit community with schools, grocery stores, gyms, and other essentials, all aimed at supporting military families. This environment came with its own challenges, especially during the pandemic, when preventing illness among active-duty personnel was critical.
Despite these challenges, Katie emphasized the importance of flexibility and teamwork. “We’re all on one team,” she said. Whether it was working with parents, collaborating with general education teachers, or finding creative solutions to unique problems, Katie learned to think outside the box to meet her students’ needs.
Creative Problem-Solving During the Pandemic
The pandemic brought unexpected obstacles to Katie’s work, such as travel restrictions that prevented her from visiting students in South Korea and Guam. One particularly creative solution involved conducting a Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) for a student in South Korea via distance consultation. Katie teamed up with an autism specialist who was also a certified TVI, leveraging technology to provide effective evaluations and support.
“I Skyped in and FaceTimed while she conducted the evaluation,” Katie explained. The experience underscored the importance of adaptability and the value of a supportive professional community. “I really appreciated the community of TVIs and O&Ms who shared ideas online,” she said. “We learned from each other, even if some ideas didn’t work out.”
The Power of Collaboration
One of Katie’s key takeaways from her time in Japan and during the pandemic was the transformative power of collaboration. Working closely with general education teachers, specialists, and families fostered a deeper understanding of each other’s roles and strengthened teamwork. “I got a better appreciation for what others do and how we can work together more effectively,” she shared.
Kassy, the podcast host, echoed this sentiment, noting how the pandemic broke down barriers and encouraged innovative collaboration. “The pandemic forced us to rethink how we teach and connect,” Kassy said. “It allowed us to rise above challenges and build stronger relationships.”
Bridging Research and Practice
Now back in the U.S. and pursuing her doctorate, Katie is determined to bridge the gap between research and practice. She is particularly passionate about conducting meaningful research that practitioners can implement in the field. Her pilot study, which explored how TVIs receive performance feedback, revealed a significant need for specialized evaluations tailored to their unique roles.
“Administrators often provide great pedagogical feedback but can’t assess our technical skills,” Katie explained. “In some cases, TVIs and O&Ms are relying on each other for that feedback, which is something I’d like to address in my dissertation.”
Katie is also exploring ways to make O&M training more accessible. “The in-person component of O&M training is vital but can be emotionally and physically demanding,” she said. “How can we better support trainees and create a more effective process for everyone?”
Advice for VI Specialists
When asked for advice for fellow VI specialists, Katie emphasized the importance of questioning the status quo. “Don’t be afraid to ask yourself, ‘Why are we doing this this way? Does it have to be done this way?’” she said. By thinking creatively and embracing new ideas, educators can find better ways to support their students and grow professionally.
Kassy wholeheartedly agreed, adding, “It doesn’t matter if you’ve been in the field for zero years or 35 years. We can all benefit from rethinking our approaches and striving to improve.”
Looking Ahead
Katie’s journey is a testament to the resilience, creativity, and collaboration required to thrive in the field of VI education. From her innovative problem-solving during the pandemic to her dedication to advancing the profession through research, Katie exemplifies what it means to take a step forward every day toward becoming the best version of yourself.
For those interested in learning more, Katie is part of the planning committee for the TVI Online Symposium, happening September 21–22, 2023. Additionally, Allied Independence is hosting a webinar on July 20, 2023, focusing on innovative strategies for working with students with visual and multiple impairments. Visit alliedindependenceonline.com for more information.
Final Thoughts
Katie’s story is a powerful reminder that the best educators are those who embrace challenges, think creatively, and prioritize collaboration. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting your journey, her advice and experiences can inspire you to take your next step forward.
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