How you can help a pupil with monocular vision

Monocular vision means sight in one eye only

This may occur as a result of injury, disease and in some cases, after unsuccessful treatment for a squint.

Some pupils with monocular vision adopt a compensatory head posture turning their head to one side.

Providing there is an awareness by all concerned, the pupil with monocular vision should be able to take part fully in the mainstream curriculum.

If at any time there is any change in the vision of the “good” eye then please notify the Visual Impairment Team.

Please note: Having sight in one eye only does not mean that the pupil has “half vision.”

Effects of monocular vision

Field of vision

This is reduced. The pupil may be unaware of people or objects on his/her blind side. This can be especially hazardous in an unfamiliar, busy or cluttered environment.

Depth of vision

A pupil with sight in only one eye lacks 3D/stereoscopic vision. The environment may be confusing: steps and kerbs unless clearly marked may not be recognized. Changes in floor surfaces may be mistaken for different levels.

Judgement of speed and distance

Games or playground activities may be frightening especially to younger pupils because of fast moving groups of children or objects.

Hand-eye co-ordination

Tasks such as threading needles or pouring liquids can cause difficulties. Understanding and sensitivity are required during these situations.

How to help

Find out and remember which is the pupil’s better eye.

Safety

• Indoors – avoid unnecessary clutter. Tables/cupboards jutting out or half opened windows or doors can be dangerous.
  
  
• Extra care should be taken in practical lessons.
  
  
• Outdoors – all aspects of road safety need to be emphasised. The pupil will be less aware of traffic approaching on his/her blind side and will need to turn his/her head more to see clearly.

In the classroom

• The pupil needs to sit with the good eye towards the teacher and the majority of the class.
  
  
• A correct seating position is very important.
  
  
• Think about seating during:
  
  
  • assembly,
    
    
  • watching DVDs,
    
    
  • class demonstrations,
    
    
  • group activities,
    
    
  • board work,
    
    
• The pupil should not be asked to share a worksheet or text book.
  
  
• Remember to sit on the pupil’s good side.

PE/Games

• The pupil may be more cautious than his/her peers especially on apparatus.
  
  
• More difficulty may be experienced with racquet sports.
  
  
• The pupil will not see the ball approaching if it is coming on his/her blind side.

Further information

Further help and advice is available from the Specialist Support Service Visual Impairment Team.

Address:

Phone: (01785) 356830
Minicom: (01785) 356835
Fax: (01785) 356841
Email: sss.service@staffordshire.gov.uk

If you, or someone you know, would like a copy of this in large print, braille, an audio tape or in languages other than English, please contact the Visual Impairment Team on 01785 356830.