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A Step Forward
By Kassandra MaloneyEducation
A Step Forward episodes
- 185. How to Handle Aggressive Behaviors with ONE SIMPLE Solution
Let’s Talk About Aggressive Behaviors in Learners with Visual Impairments. We all have students we have a really hard time working with. And honestly, we as teachers should know how to handle that kind of situation, but how? In this episode, Kenalea Johnson and Ruthanne Garcia share an amazing yet simple technique to help us handle aggressive and withdrawn behaviors of our learners. It's so SIMPLE yet so POWERFUL.
In this Episode:Meet Kenalea and Mimi: Learn about their inspiring journeys, Kenalea, a nurse for over 35 years turned orientation and mobility specialist, and Mimi, an O&M specialist since 2019 with a background as an intervener.Overcoming Challenges: Kenalea and Mimi share their personal struggles in transitioning careers, balancing responsibilities, and staying committed to their passion for education.The Power of Nature Sounds: Discover how their innovative strategy using nature sounds helps engage and regulate blind and visually impaired learners, showing transformative results across various environments.👉 Don’t miss out on the 2025 International Orientation and Mobility Symposium!https://www.orientationandmobilitysymposium.comWhether you’re an educator, parent, or someone passionate about supporting learners with visual impairments, this episode is packed with insights, inspiration, and actionable tips. Let’s dream big and help every learner thrive!✨ Join the Conversation!Have questions or your own tips? Let’s chat in the comments below—I’d love to hear from you. ⬇️If this video resonated with you, don’t forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and hit the BELL ICON 🔔! Stay tuned for updates and new content from the TVI and O&M Symposiums.📅 Mark Your Calendars:January 29-31: International Orientation & Mobility Online SymposiumThe ultimate conference for O&M Specialists!https://www.orientationandmobilitysymposium.com💌 Let’s Connect:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alliedindependence/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alliedindependenceYoutube:https://www.youtube.com/@alliedindependenceThanks for watching! Grab your free resources at https://alliedindependenceonline.com/free-downloads. See you in the next video! 👋30 min - 184. Empowering the Visually Impaired with AI!
Uncover how the EMVI App is transforming assistive technology for individuals with visual impairments using Artificial Intelligence (AI). Join Lorenzo and Haile, experts in occupational therapy and extensive experience with people with visual impairments, as they reveal the app's features, development journey, and practical applications to enhance independence.
💡 In This Episode:*Meet the Visionaries:* Lorenzo and Haile discuss their journey in occupational therapy and share insights into developing the EMVI App.*Key Features of EMVI:* Learn how this AI-powered visual assistant simplifies daily tasks, navigation, and non-verbal communication for individuals who are blind, legally blind, or have low vision.*Practical Demonstrations:* Discover how the app works in real-world scenarios, from navigating bus stops to identifying colors and materials in art.Register for the 2025 International Orientation and Mobility Online Symposium: https://www.orientationandmobilitysymposium.comCheck out the EMVI App: https://www.emvi.aiWhether you’re an educator, a parent, or just someone passionate about accessibility, this episode is packed with actionable insights. Tune in and let’s empower independence together! 🎧✨Don’t forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and hit the BELL ICON 🔔 so you never miss out on our latest updates about TVI and O&M Symposiums!💼 Join the Conversation!Have questions or tips of your own? Drop a comment below and let’s chat about it. ⬇️Thanks for watching, and see you in the next video! 👋Like what you see/hear? Grab your free resources at https://alliedindependenceonline.com/free-downloads🗓 ACADEMIC CALENDAR:January 29-31: "International Orientation & Mobility Online Symposium" | Conference for O&M Specialistshttps://www.orientationandmobilitysymposium.com/💌 FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL:https://www.instagram.com/alliedindependence/https://www.facebook.com/alliedindependence#podcast #education #specialeducation #assistivetechnology #orientationandmobility #occupationaltherapy #teacher #visuallyimpaired #visualimpairment #assistivetech #tools #mobilitytraining #blindness #mobileapp #artificialintelligence #ai41 min - 183. The HEATED DEBATE on Occupational Therapy and Orientation and Mobility!
The future of Orientation and Mobility (O&M) is evolving, and we're diving into a heated debate: Should Occupational Therapists (OTs) be ACVREP Certified?
With only 3,037 active O&M Specialists in the U.S. and a growing population of individuals with visual impairments, collaboration between OTs and O&M professionals might be the key to addressing unmet needs. But how does this impact our roles, responsibilities, and leadership within the field?💡 In This Episode:*Understanding the ACVREP Proposal:* A deep dive into the certification process, mentorship requirements, and public comments shaping this potential shift in O&M training.*Common Fears Among O&M Specialists:* Exploring concerns about professional scarcity, job security, and the evolving roles in O&M education.*The Game-Changing Solution:* Discussing what could be the future of providing holistic services to individuals with low vision, blindness, or visual impairments.👉 Register for the 2025 International Orientation and Mobility Symposium: https://www.orientationandmobilitysymposium.comDon’t forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and hit the BELL ICON 🔔 so you never miss the latest updates from Allied Independence on orientation and mobility training, teacher development, and skills for the visually impaired community.📢 Join the Conversation!Got questions or insights? Share them in the comments below. Let’s learn and grow together!Thank you for watching, and see you in the next episode! 👋Explore free resources here: https://alliedindependenceonline.com/free-downloads📅 Academic Calendar:January 29-31: "International Orientation & Mobility Online Symposium"📍 Conference for Orientation and Mobility Specialistshttps://www.orientationandmobilitysymposium.com💌 Follow Us on Social:📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alliedindependence/📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alliedindependence#teacher #educator #visuallyimpaired #ot #om #orientationandmobility #occupationaltherapy #career #teacherlife #visualimpairment #acvrep #debate #fyp #explore #education #sped #specialeducation #podcast19 min - 182. Overcoming the Cultural Barriers in Orientation and Mobility
Let’s talk about the Cultural Barriers in Orientation and Mobility and How to overcome this with Multilingual Families of the Blind and Visually Impaired.
Cultural and language barriers can significantly impact the education and support of blind and low vision students, especially those from multilingual families. In this episode, we’re diving into the importance of culturally responsive teaching and strategies for effective family engagement with Dr. Conchita Hernandez Legorreta.💡 In This Episode:*The Role of Culture in Education:* Discover how cultural and linguistic differences shape the experiences of multilingual families and their visually impaired students.*Understanding Family Perspectives:* Explore the challenges families face, from language barriers to feelings of exclusion, and learn how schools can create a more inclusive environment.*Actionable Strategies for Teachers:* Get practical tips for building trust, fostering collaboration, and creating inclusive family engagement events like the innovative "Total Queso the IEP."*Register for the 2025 International Orientation and Mobility Symposium:* https://www.orientationandmobilitysymposium.comWant to reach out to Dr. Conchita Hernandez Legorreta? Contact us at [email protected] and we'll get you connected!Don’t forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and hit the BELL ICON 🔔 so you never miss the latest updates from Allied Independence on orientation and mobility training, teacher development, and skills for the visually impaired community.📢 Join the Conversation!Got questions or insights? Share them in the comments below. How do you think Orientation and Mobility Specialists can break the cultural barriers to support our blind and low vision Students?Thank you for watching, and see you in the next episode! 👋Explore free resources here: https://alliedindependenceonline.com/free-downloads📅 Academic Calendar:January 29-31, 2025: "International Orientation & Mobility Online Symposium"📍 Conference for Orientation and Mobility Specialistshttps://www.orientationandmobilitysymposium.com💌 Follow Us on Social:📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alliedindependence/📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alliedindependence1 hr 4 min - 181. Innovating Orientation and Mobility for the Visually Impaired
In the evolving field of orientation and mobility (O&M), the need to bridge the gap between residential programs and real-world application is critical.
Join us in the newest episode with Kassy, alongside Leslie Hoskins and Erica Ihrke from the Leader Dogs for the Blind as they dive into the evolution of Orientation and Mobility and what's in store for the upcoming years as an Orientation and Mobility Specialist!💡 In This Episode:Changes in O&M Over the Years: Discover how the field of Orientation and Mobility has evolved to meet the lifelong needs of clients, adapting to new challenges such as changing traffic patterns and environmental dynamics.Benefits of Attending Leader Dogs’ Programs: Learn how immersive residential training and in-home support from Leader Dogs empower clients to gain confidence, independence, and practical travel skills. Hear inspiring client success stories!Future of O&M and Technology: Explore how wearable tech, self-driving cars, and other innovations are revolutionizing O&M practices while ensuring foundational skills remain central to client success.👉 Register for the 2025 Orientation and Mobility Online Symposium:https://www.orientationandmobilitysymposium.com👉 Learn More About Leader Dogs’ Programs:https://www.leaderdog.org/programs/orientation-and-mobility/🔔 Like, Subscribe, and Hit the Bell Icon!Never miss my latest content on O&M training, visual impairments, and more here on the Allied Independence channel.📢 Join the Conversation!Got questions or stories to share? Have you tried Leader Dogs' Programs? If Yes, feel free to drop them in the comments below—we are inspired by the stories you share!*Thanks for watching, and see you in the next video! 👋*Like what you see/hear? Grab your free resources at https://alliedindependenceonline.com/free-downloads*📅 ACADEMIC CALENDAR:*January 29-31: "International Orientation & Mobility Online Symposium" | Conference for O&M Specialistshttps://www.orientationandmobilitysymposium.com/*💌 FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL:*https://www.instagram.com/alliedindependence/https://www.facebook.com/alliedindependence#visuallyimpaired #visualimpairment #blind #education #educational #podcast #guidedog #orientation #mobility #mobilitytraining #teacher #skills #teaching #teachingstrategies #specialeducation #teachertraining48 min - 180. Global Perspectives on Culturally Responsive Teaching in Orientation & Mobility
In this episode, we dive into the critical topic of culturally responsive teaching practices in Orientation and Mobility (O&M). Gain valuable insights from experienced orientation and mobility specialists around the world on how to create inclusive, effective learning environments that respect and integrate diverse cultural backgrounds.
This is an excerpt from the 2024 Orientation and Mobility Symposium discussing Global Perspectives of Culturally Responsive Teaching Practices in Orientation and Mobility, presented by Dr. Molly Pasley, Jeremy Hill, Steve Widder, Oseas de Leon, Autumn Booth, and Angel Black.💡 In This Episode:*Defining Culturally Responsive Teaching (CRTP):* Learn the principles behind CRTP and how they empower Orientation & Mobility (O&M) specialists to tailor teaching approaches that honor diverse cultural backgrounds.*Challenges in O&M Across Regions:* Discover firsthand accounts of overcoming barriers in Guatemala, Alaska, and Australia, from environmental obstacles to cultural beliefs.*Innovative Strategies for Success:* Explore tools like culturally designed canes, community integration techniques, and the importance of family involvement in O&M training.Disclaimer: This excerpt contains altered audio to protect the identity of our minor participant in this podcast.
🎥 Register for the 2025 Orientation and Mobility Online Symposium: https://www.orientationandmobilitysymposium.comWhether you’re an educator, a parent, or someone passionate about accessible education, this episode is packed with actionable insights. Let’s transform the future of mobility together! 🎧✨Don’t forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and hit the BELL ICON 🔔 to stay updated on the latest TVI and O&M Symposiums!📢 Join the Conversation!Have questions or insights to share? Drop a comment below—let’s connect! ⬇️Thanks for watching, and see you in the next video! 👋📚 Free Resources: https://alliedindependenceonline.com/free-downloads📅 Upcoming Events:January 29-31: International Orientation & Mobility Online Symposium | Connect with O&M Specialists worldwide.https://www.orientationandmobilitysymposium.com/💌 FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL:https://www.instagram.com/alliedindependence/https://www.facebook.com/alliedindependence#education #orientationandmobility #symposium #podcast #webinar #visuallyimpaired #culturallyresponsiveteaching #teacher #teacherstrategies #inclusiveeducation #explore #fyp1 hr 26 min - 179. Orientation & Mobility for Visually Impaired Wheelchair UsersThis episode is an excerpt from the 2021 International Orientation and Mobility Online Symposium, we dive into essential orientation and mobility (O&M) strategies tailored for wheelchair users with visual impairments. Join Scott Crawford as he shares expert insights on mobility training, teaching students how to navigate their environment safely and effectively. Whether you’re a teacher, orientation and mobility specialist, or someone passionate about inclusive education, this episode offers valuable tools to enhance mobility for people with visual impairment and multiple impairments.💡 In This Episode:Assessment: Learn how to evaluate a student's ability to operate their wheelchair, including techniques for safe stopping and wheelchair control.Navigating Tight Spaces: Discover effective strategies for maneuvering through narrow openings and making tight turns.Wheelchair Propulsion Techniques: Explore different propulsion methods, from using feet to alternating hand pushes, to enhance wheelchair mobility.Register for the 2025 International Orientation and Mobility Symposium: https://www.orientationandmobilitysymposium.com/Whether you’re an educator, a parent, or just someone passionate about making a difference, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways. Tune in and let’s dream big together for our students! 🎧✨Don’t forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and hit the BELL ICON 🔔 so you never miss out on our latest content and updates on the TVI and O&M Symposiums!📢 Join the Conversation!Have questions or tips of your own? Drop a comment below and let’s chat about it. ⬇️Thanks for watching, and see you in the next video! 👋Like what you see/hear? Grab your free resources at https://alliedindependenceonline.com/free-downloads📅 ACADEMIC CALENDAR:January 29-31: "International Orientation & Mobility Online Symposium" | Conference for O&M Specialistshttps://www.orientationandmobilitysymposium.com/💌 FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL:https://www.instagram.com/alliedindependence/https://www.facebook.com/alliedindependence1 hr 31 min
- 178. The Top 3 Tools for Orientation and Mobility
Discover the top three essential tools every Orientation and Mobility Specialist needs in their toolkit!
💡 In This Episode:- The White Cane:
Learn what an LPI is, how it affects pedestrian crossings, and why it’s crucial to understand it if you’re an O&M specialist or someone with a visual impairment.- Tactile Maps: Explore how tactile and Wheatley maps help students navigate their environments with confidence.
- Smartphone Integration: Discover how to maximize GPS, magnification, and apps like Seeing AI to empower your learners.
👉 Register for the 2025 International Orientation and Mobility Symposium:
https://www.orientationandmobilitysymposium.comWhether you’re an educator, parent, or advocate for people with visual impairments, this video is packed with actionable teaching tips and tools. Let’s work together to build independence for our students! 🎧✨
Don’t forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and hit the BELL ICON 🔔 so you never miss our latest updates on O&M classes, teaching tools, and resources for teachers!
📢 Join the Conversation!
What are your go-to tools for teaching orientation and mobility? Share in the comments below!🎁 Free Resources:
Grab your free tools and lesson plans here: https://alliedindependenceonline.com/free-downloads📅 Academic Calendar:
📌 January 29-31: International Orientation & Mobility Online Symposium | A global conference for O&M Specialists!
https://www.orientationandmobilitysymposium.com💌 Follow Us:
🌟 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alliedindependence/
🌟 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alliedindependence6 min - 177. Crossing Complex Intersections Using “Accessible Pedestrian Signals" Webinar
Crossing complex intersections can be daunting, but with accessible pedestrian signals (APS) and modern orientation and mobility strategies, learners with visual impairments can navigate these challenges confidently. In this episode, we dive deep into tools, techniques, and frameworks that every Orientation and Mobility Specialist needs to know. 🌍✨
💡 In This Episode:Accessible Pedestrian Signals (APS) Basics: Understand how APS devices, like audible tones and tactile feedback, enhance accessibility and safety at intersections.Step-by-Step Intersection Navigation: Learn practical strategies to teach safe street crossings using APS, from analyzing traffic patterns to aligning for optimal crossings.Advocacy and Cutting-Edge Tools: Explore apps like OKO and Ped App, and learn advocacy tips to bring more APS to your community.⌚ Time-stamps:00:00 Introduction06:00 What you need to know first..10:42 Excerpt from the 2024 IOMOS22:17 What is an APS Device?23:32 APS Teaching Techniques42:10 How to Advocate👉 Register for the APS Devices Webinar:https://alliedindependenceonline.com/trainingWhether you’re an educator, a parent, or someone passionate about accessibility, this episode is packed with actionable insights. Let’s work together to empower our learners and make street crossings safer! 🎧✨Don’t forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and hit the BELL ICON 🔔 so you never miss out on our latest content and updates on the TVI and O&M Symposiums!📢 Join the Conversation!Have questions or tips of your own? Drop a comment below, and let’s chat about it! ⬇️Like what you see/hear? Grab your free resources at:👉 https://alliedindependenceonline.com/free-downloads📅 ACADEMIC CALENDAR:January 29-31: International Orientation & Mobility Online Symposium | A must-attend for O&M Specialists!👉 https://www.orientationandmobilitysymposium.com/💌 FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL:Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/alliedindependence/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alliedindependenceThank you for watching, and see you in the next video! 👋#visualimpairment #pedestriansafety #accessibility #orientationandmobility #assistivetechnology #mobilitytraining #community #advocacy #orientation #mobility #safety #podcast #education #educational #awareness #teacherlife #fyp #explore #explorepage #teacher #webinar58 min - 176. Navigating Lead Pedestrian Intervals for People with Visual Impairment
In this episode, we break down the complexities of Lead Pedestrian Intervals (LPI) and offer strategies for safely crossing intersections that include this traffic feature. As an Orientation and Mobility Specialist, I’ll guide you through the unique aspects of LPIs and provide insights into how to effectively navigate these intersections. This video is perfect for anyone working with people with visual impairments, from O&M specialists to individuals with visual impairments themselves!
💡 In This Episode:
- What is a Lead Pedestrian Interval?: Learn what an LPI is, how it affects pedestrian crossings, and why it’s crucial to understand it if you’re an O&M specialist or someone with a visual impairment.
- Crossing an LPI Intersection: We take a deep dive into crossing a Lead Pedestrian Interval intersection and provide practical tips for both O&M specialists and people with visual impairments.
- Teaching Strategies for O&M Specialists: Discover the best practices for teaching students how to cross intersections with an LPI safely and independently, even in the face of a traffic surge.
⌚ Time-stamps:00:00 - Introduction01:23 - What is an Accessible Pedestrian Signal?02:30 - Meg's Discussion about the LPI04:03 - Example of an LPI06:44 - Strategies of Navigating LPI🎥 Watch the FULL Youtube Video here!
https://youtu.be/byQ1Sg28HEI
👉 Register for the APS Devices Webinar: https://alliedindependenceonline.com/training
Whether you're an educator, a parent, or just passionate about supporting people with visual impairments, this episode is full of valuable insights. Tune in and help make a difference in the lives of students with visual impairments!
Don’t forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and hit the BELL ICON 🔔 so you never miss out on our latest content related to orientation and mobility training, the O&M community, and much more!
📢 Join the Conversation!
Have questions or tips of your own? Drop a comment below and let’s chat about Lead Pedestrian Intervals, APS devices, and best practices for crossing intersections with visual impairments. ⬇️Thanks for watching, and see you in the next video! 👋
Like what you see/hear? Grab your free resources at https://alliedindependenceonline.com/free-downloads📅 ACADEMIC CALENDAR:
January 29-31: "International Orientation & Mobility Online Symposium" | Conference for O&M Specialists
https://www.orientationandmobilitysymposium.com/💌 FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL:
https://www.instagram.com/alliedindependence/
https://www.facebook.com/alliedindependence
9 min
About A Step Forward
From the publisher's feed
An Orientation and Mobility Specialist's roadmap to increasing their students' independence while staying sane in the work place.