People, Inclusion, and Sensory Limitations: Orientation Activity

Directions for Web Based: Read the situations below. On a sheet of paper respond to the task posed at the end of each scenario.

Directions with group: Divide into groups of three and read the situations below. Respond to the task posed at the end of each scenario in a group discussion.

1. Silvia would like to use your cruise line to take a vacation with her husband. She has communicated to you that she has diabetic retinopathy, a disorder of the retina due to diabetes. As a member of the recreation department on the ship, identify some adaptations or considerations you may make when attempting to make this vacation one of the best Silvia has ever experienced.

2. Joseph, a teenager, would like to participate in the basketball league offered by the local parks and recreation department. Since Joseph happens to have a sensorineural hearing loss caused by a childhood disease, identify some ways you may assist Joseph in having a successful experience with the basketball league.

For Silvia to access your cruise line:

• Provide her with an orientation to the ship.
• Ask her for suggestions on how to best serve her.
• Discuss lighting conditions on the ship with Silvia.
• Check with signs on ship for ADA compliance with regard to color and use of Braille.
• Increase verbal instructions and directions when giving demonstrations.
• Provide large-print playing cards and assistance if card games are desired.
• Reserve a place for her entire party at a front table for evening entertainment.
• Have a selection of refreshments that includes sugar-free options.

For Joseph to play in the basketball league:

• Determine the level of his residual hearing.
• Learn how to maximize his hearing abilities on the court.
• Educate the local basketball officials on ADA compliance such as having a light flash to signal each time the whistle is blown.
• Identify another player to be an informer to ensure Joseph understands verbal discussions.
• Use sign language while speaking and teach teammates a couple of signs each day.

Consider the following questions when thinking about the orientation activity:

• Why is lighting an important consideration when working with individuals with visual impairments?
• Why is it important to include Silvia’s entire party at a front table if only she is visually impaired?
• What is the purpose of using an informant during activities?
• Why is it important to use sign language and the spoken word together when addressing individuals with deafness?
  

[return to People, Inclusion, and Sensory Limitations] [Class]

Copyright 1998 Northern Arizona University, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED