Teaching Vision Impaired Lessons

What

Skiing and riding with a vision impairment. Students will almost always need a sighted guide. Speed and terrain will depend on the student. At an advanced level racers’ with a vision impairment compete in downhill events at Paralympic level

Who

Vision impairments can vary from absolute blindness through to a wide range of vision impairments affecting visual depth and field, and visual acuity. Sometimes there are multiple disabilities so always check on the cause of the vision impairment and for any relevant medical information. Use the Sensory Assessment model when teaching vision impaired students.

How

Use the standard NZSIA Ski or SBINZ Snowboard progressions with an emphasis on clear explanations and creating an image in the student’s mind.

When assessing the vision impairment you are endeavouring to ascertain what will be the best approach to guiding and teaching. This will include knowing where to position yourself relative to your student in terms of direction and distance as well as the type of clothing to wear.

Balance/Stance

If students are taking a defensive stance, a hands-on approach will help to encourage a more natural centred position. If separation from the student is needed consider using poles, a ski pal, or a snow wing. Once the student gains confidence, aim to have them ride/ski independently. A double or single pole drag while moving will help the student to gauge their speed and adjust their stance accordingly.

Rotational

These movements tend to be abrupt creating L or Z shaped turns. Encourage even continuous steering movements. Continuous sound through pole tapping, clapping, or talking will help to guide a student through a turn.

Edging

Without a visual reference to the angle of the slope edging movements are challenging to learn. Keep the movements small and use poles or a Delaney pole to assist the student to feel their position relative to the slope. Outriggers can sometimes assist as a teaching tool for a snowboarder to maintain balance until they develop a feeling for the edge change.

Pressure Control Movements

Spend time working with the student to develop their awareness of the different positions, feelings, and movements they make to control pressure. Do this statically, then whilst moving , then apply it in the exercise you are teaching.