Samita Devi Shakya: Limited resources and social stigma make braille learning difficult

Samita Devi Shakya is a braille translator with a 16-year tenure at Laboratory Higher Secondary School in Kirtipur. Passionate about education and committed to making an impact, Shakya has been doing her best to provide support and guidance for visually impaired students. As a braille educator, she has played a pivotal role in fostering an inclusive learning environment, ensuring that every student, regardless of their visual abilities, has the opportunity to thrive and succeed.

With a wealth of experience and a genuine passion for her work, she stands as a testament to the transformative power of education in breaking down barriers and creating equal opportunities for all. In a conversation with Evana Manandhar of ApEx, she shared her insights and experiences while talking about the profound impact of Braille education on the lives of visually impaired students.

How do you make learning braille engaging for children?

Creating an engaging braille learning experience for children involves tactile activities like crafting braille letters and interactive games such as Braille Bingo and Scrabble. Storytelling with braille storybooks enhances language skills, while technology like braille learning apps and 3D-printed tactile graphics adds a modern dimension. Art projects and collaborative activities foster creativity and social learning, making braille a memorable part of the curriculum. Integrating music and rhythm adds an auditory aspect, and celebrating achievements reinforces a positive attitude toward braille learning.

 What specific challenges do you encounter when teaching braille to young learners?

Teaching braille to young learners poses challenges due to their developmental stage and the tactile nature of braille. Key hurdles include the gradual development of tactile sensitivity, limited fine motor skills for precise finger movements, and potential cognitive overload. Challenges like letter reversals, short attention spans, and limited exposure to braille in daily life further complicate the teaching process. The scarcity of suitable resources and potential social stigma add to the complexity. Overcoming these challenges requires adapting to visual learners, providing teacher training, and ensuring a positive and inclusive braille learning experience for young children.

Can you share some creative activities or games you use to reinforce braille skills?

Teaching braille to young learners poses unique challenges, given their developing tactile sensitivity and fine motor skills. To overcome these hurdles, engaging in activities is crucial. One effective approach is the Sensory Letter Hunt, where braille letters are crafted from various textured materials and hidden for children to find by touch, making the learning process interactive and enjoyable. Braille alphabet puzzles provide a hands-on method, allowing children to match tactile puzzle pieces to form braille letters, enhancing both braille skills and fine motor abilities.

Integrating music with braille, such as associating each braille letter with a musical note, adds a creative dimension to learning. Children can create tunes using braille letters, linking auditory learning with braille practice and making the educational experience more enjoyable. These activities not only reinforce braille skills but also address challenges specific to young learners, creating a positive and inclusive braille learning environment.

How do you involve parents in the learning process and encourage practice at home?

During admissions, I stress the pivotal role of braille literacy for visually impaired children, portraying it not just as an additional skill but as a fundamental tool for education and independence. I emphasize braille’s unique benefits, promoting literacy, enhancing cognitive development, and fostering independence. Engaging parents in hands-on activities, such as labeling household items with braille, illustrates its practical applications.

Encouraging a supportive community, I propose a forum for parents learning braille, fostering camaraderie and mutual support. Even a basic understanding can greatly assist their child. Supporting a child’s braille learning involves integrating a patient, multi-sensory approach into daily activities. Celebrating small achievements builds confidence. Lastly, showcasing successful teachers with visual impairments exemplifies an inclusive mindset, fostering an educational space where all students can thrive.

What advice would you give to educators or parents who are supporting a child in learning braille for the first time?

For educators or parents guiding a child in learning braille, prioritize patience, consistency, and creativity. Start early and maintain regular exposure to braille, using a multi-sensory approach for engagement. Celebrate small successes to build positive associations, and involve the child in goal-setting. Integrate braille into daily activities for practical relevance and establish a supportive environment with open communication. Seek guidance from certified braille instructors for effective support. Remember, learning braille is a gradual process, and fostering a positive and encouraging atmosphere is crucial for the child’s successful braille literacy journey.