A face-to-face training session was organized by the School of Foreign Languages at Istanbul Medeniyet University at Orhanlı Campus on April 2, 2026. Titled “Supporting Visually Impaired Students” the session was delivered by Sena Akyol, an instructor from UES Educational Institution, and attended by instructors from the School of Foreign Languages.
The first part of the training focused on the common challenges faced by visually impaired students. In this context, both physical challenges—such as materials presented in small font sizes and time pressure—and psychological challenges—such as feelings of isolation and hesitation to seek help—were discussed. This was followed by a sample video in which a visually impaired student shared their experiences firsthand, raising participants’ awareness of these challenges.
In the subsequent stage, three key principles to consider when working with visually impaired students were introduced: “Access comes before assessment,” “Adaptation is not simplification,” and “Fair does not mean identical.” Within this framework, participants explored ways of making teaching practices more inclusive.
During the practical component, the trainer demonstrated how coursebook materials can be adapted using artificial intelligence tools. Participants were then given the opportunity to redesign their own teaching materials in line with these principles.
The final part of the session focused on assessment and evaluation practices. In particular, participants discussed how exam items can be designed for partially sighted students. The trainer presented both effective and ineffective examples of exam tasks and shared practical recommendations for developing more inclusive assessment practices.
The session concluded on a highly productive note, with thanks extended to Sena Akyol from UES Educational Institution.
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