Top 5 moments from the 2019 International O&M Online Symposium

Let’s take a walk down memory lane! In this episode, we’ll revisit the top moments that defined the National Orientation and Mobility Symposium. This symposium is a premier event for O&M specialists, offering an efficient way to earn CEUs and acquire tools to profoundly impact the lives of students. With a community of dedicated professionals and the power of the internet, the symposium delivers the benefits of an international conference without the hassle of travel.

Top 5 Moments from the National Orientation and Mobility Symposium:

1. Daniel Kish on Hearing Echoes in Enclosed Spaces
Daniel Kish, the founder of Visioneers.org, captivated attendees with his session on echolocation. His ability to teach individuals how to perceive echoes in enclosed environments is nothing short of transformative. Kish’s methods emphasize independence, enabling individuals with visual impairments to navigate their surroundings with heightened spatial awareness.

2. Chris Tabb’s Exploration of Seeing AI

Chris Tabb shares the O&M Livebinder and the features of the Seeing Ai app.Tabb showcased the app's innovative features, such as reading text and identifying objects, which enhance daily life for visually impaired individuals. This session underscored the importance of integrating cutting-edge technology into O&M practice, providing practical tools that are both accessible and empowering.

3. Aurelie Boutier on Learning to See Post-Retinal Implants
Aurelie Boutier’s presentation shed light on the journey of adapting to artificial vision following retinal implant surgery. Her insights into the psychological and practical challenges faced by patients highlighted the need for comprehensive support systems. This discussion was a reminder of the complexities involved in transitioning to new visual experiences.

4. Dr. Tara Brown on Communication for Dual-Sensory Loss
Dr. Tara Brown-Olgivie’s session focused on the diverse communication styles of individuals with dual-sensory loss. From tactile sign language to print-on-palm techniques, Brown emphasized the necessity for O&M specialists to be adept in various communication methods. Her talk provided valuable strategies for enhancing interaction and understanding in this demographic.

5. Marty Schultz’s Directionality Games for Students
Marty Schultz demonstrated a game from Objective Ed that is designed to improve directionality skills in students with visual impairments. The interactive nature of these games makes learning engaging and effective, aligning with modern educational approaches that value gamification as a learning tool.

Each presentation had its unique highlights, but these five moments stood out as particularly impactful. The 2019 symposium was a rich source of inspiration and practical knowledge, offering attendees insights that could be directly applied to their work with students.

Looking Ahead to the Next Symposium

The upcoming 2020 International O&M Online Symposium promises to build on this momentum with an exciting lineup of presentations. Topics will include supporting individuals with cerebral visual impairments, navigating mobility with guide dogs for wheelchair users, and innovative teaching strategies for students with complex needs. With a blend of theory and practice, the symposium continues to be a vital resource for O&M professionals worldwide.