Task B - AT Invention - Reading Magnifier

Reading Magnifier - Invention

This activity proved to be a fun and imagination filled time with my partner Michael Corbett.  Creating this invention took us on a journey around Halifax to a Walmart and a number of Lawton and Shopper's Drug Mart pharmacies.  A journey that ended a two hour search for pieces to build this assistive technology item!  What we constructed was a reading magnifier with a few modifications.  The reading magnifier that we constructed was to support an individual with a vision impairment.  The following items were used to construct the reading magnifier:

1) clothes hangar
2) ribbon
3) cross stitching hoop
4) sheet magnifier
5) hot glue

Although a reading magnifier is something that exists already we decided to build a prototype of a new version of a reading magnifier with a few enhancements.  Each of these enhancements brings The new and improved reading magnifier has the following enhancements:

1) The ribbon is used to hang the device around the users neck for mobility. This ribbon could be upgraded using a padded neck support for comfort.
2) The clothes hangar rests on the users chest or belly.  This clothes hangar could also have padding to make it more comfortable for the user.
3) When these two things happen than the user can begin reading at their leisure :).

This invention has helped individuals with visual impairments read more easily.  We added the ribbon to allow readers to use this as a mobile device if needed.  The modification to the coat hangar allows this item to be propped up and allow reading to occur on a flat surface.  This item with these modifications will make reading much easier and enjoyable for the user.

So, with this awesome new and improved low tech device, what could a teacher do with it?

The teaching of reading with a magnifier:

Positive modelling is often neglected for students with vision impairments because they are invariably the only student with vision problems in their school. Students need the opportunity to meet with and observe proficient readers with magnifiers. It is difficult to be confident about mastering a new skill if you’ve never known anyone else capable of it.

Magnifiers or large print

Teachers have all observed huge variation between skills of vision impaired students who use magnifiers. There are many non-users, some refuters, those who use them for reading labels and diagrams only and some who read everything with them. 

So, why should students use magnifiers?

Disadvantages for users of large print

• enlarging can emphasize the imperfections in print
• pictures are in black & white (and shades of grey)
• labels on graphics or maths symbols may need further enlargement
• large print books are very bulky, especially textbooks

Advantages for users of large print

• little or no instruction is needed to use LP
• a Low Vision Clinic evaluation is not required for LP
• student may be less self-conscious when reading LP (doesn’t need to use any special aids)
• LP books are funded by the production agency, whereas parental or other funding is required for magnifiers

Disadvantages for users of magnifiers

• magnifiers should be prescribed by Optometrist
• magnifiers and clinical appointments are usually funded by parents
• the cosmetics of magnifiers may cause self-consciousness
• optical problems associated with the optics of magnifiers need to be tolerated
• instruction is required in use of magnifier
• some time and commitment is required if student is to attain skill
• reading speed and comprehension will probably be reduced in early stages of use

Advantages of magnifiers

• magnifiers allow immediate access to print anywhere
• maps and graphics can be viewed in true colours
• lower overall cost per child than LP
• lighter and more portable than LP
• no ordering and waiting time for materials
• may be more cosmetically desirable than using huge books
• allow greater independence (and choice in reading materials!)
• can be used post school

I believe these last two points make the teaching of efficient magnifier use essential for many of our students. Magnifiers offer our students more independence and options for literacy at and after school.

This was a very interesting activity to complete and I have added to my knowledge and awareness of assistive technology.  As a high school principal, I will be looking at creating more support for my students that require assistive technology and other supports for academic success.  My learning resource teacher will be having many conversations with me in the upcoming school year on how to best support students with assistive technology where needed :)!