People with low vision learning to assist and support others new to their sight loss through teleconferencing

Abstract

The aim of the study was to demonstrate the outstanding benefits of telelearning as a medium in training peer workers across the state of Victoria. Findings illustrate positive outcomes for the client, peer worker, organisation, and the community. The Vision Australia Foundation peer program has been acknowledged as a ‘best-practice’ model to train vision-impaired people to support others new to their sight loss. This ‘self-directed’ mode of learning facilitates the process of vision-impaired people sharing their knowledge, experience, and skills in helping others. Being vision impaired, peers are able to identify the needs of people experiencing vision loss and to work together to learn effective strategies to support others. The use of the teleconferencing medium has many advantages, including access for clients living in rural areas who are isolated by distance. It is cost- and time-efficient and focused on meeting both training and group process outcomes.