Foundations of Braille Literacy Training Program

The Foundations of Braille Literacy training program is presented as a progressive series of nine topics. The program is available free of charge, with an optional Certificate of Completion available at a cost of AU$50 at the end of the program.

The content is drawn from relevant research in the field of braille literacy, with reference lists provided at the end of each presentation. Each topic consists of one or more video-recorded presentations and a topic quiz. Each topic quiz contains ten True or False questions that are drawn from the topic. A score of 7 out of 10 is required to move on to the next topic and multiple attempts are permitted.

The nine topics are as follows:

  1. Print and braille literacy perspectives. This topic explores literacy definitions and components, the stages of literacy development for sighted and touch learners, and indicators for choosing a regular or functional literacy program.
  2. Learning to read by touch. The topic introduces Louis Braille and his tactile code, braille literacy skills, the differences between print and braille, and tips for teachers.
  3. Let’s begin with the braille cell and tactile perception. The topic introduces the braille cell, and skills centred and meaning centred instructional approaches for developing braille literacy skills.
  4. Let’s begin with braille letters. This topic introduces the Mangold order of braille code instruction; teaching approaches for introducing the letters g, l and a; and hand movement patterns for braille reading.
  5. Creating accessible texts for braille learners. The topic explores questions to consider when selecting print books for translation into braille, inclusive practices when creating dual media and multi-media books, and example braille texts.
  6. Play and learn: The vital role of play in early childhood. The topic considers vision-specific skills in early childhood, the benefits of using a play-based approach to braille literacy instruction and play tips when working with children with blindness and low vision.
  7. From touch to text: Tristan’s journey to braille literacy. In this topic, we follow the braille literacy journey of Tristan. Through a real-time interview, Tristan shares how she was introduced to braille as a young child and the technology she uses today as a braille transcriber and proofreader at NextSense.
  8. Queensland braille learning progression and assessment tool. This topic introduces the two components of the braille learning and progression tool.
  9. Supporting dual media users. This topic is presented as three video-recorded presentations that explore print media assessment, adaptations, and two case studies.

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